Former Premier League midfielder Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to a charge of assault following an alleged incident outside a golf club in northwest England earlier this year.

The 43-year-old, known for his combative playing style with clubs like Manchester City and Newcastle United, appeared via videolink from Liverpool prison for a hearing at Liverpool Crown Court. Barton denied causing grievous bodily harm with intent to 51-year-old Kevin Lynch on March 8 outside the Huyton and Prescot Golf Club.

The court heard that Barton and his co-defendant, 50-year-old Gary O'Grady, had been drinking with Lynch at the club prior to the alleged altercation. Lynch, a former non-league football manager, reportedly sustained serious injuries to his eye.

While Barton was remanded in custody following the plea hearing, O'Grady had his conditional bail renewed. A trial date has been set for September 1 and is expected to last seven days.

Barton, who earned one cap for England and also played for Rangers and Marseille, has transitioned to media following his retirement. He currently hosts the 'Common Sense with Joey Barton' podcast, which promises unfiltered commentary on sports and society—a persona that has often kept him in the public eye long after his playing days ended.