Former Premier League Star Pleads Not Guilty In Court To Assaulting Woman

Former English Premier League soccer star Joey Barton was charged with assault by beating. He has denied the allegation.

According to the Metropolitan Police, the charge was connected to an incident that happened in Kew, London, on June 2. Due to the assault, a woman allegedly suffered a head injury, reported ESPN.

The Bristol Rovers manager has denied grabbing his wife, Georgia Barton, by the throat and kicking her in the head, reported BBC. The incident allegedly happened outside a property where they had been with two friends.

The 38-year-old virtually appeared before Wimbledon Magistrates Court Monday, where he spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and address. Georgia was left with a bloody nose following the incident, the court heard. Then she called the police and asked for him to be removed from the residential property.

Barton was released on unconditional bail. His trial is on Dec. 16.

He played in the English Premier League several times for Queens Park Rangers, Manchester City and Newcastle United. Later he moved into management level. He began his new career with Fleetwood Town in 2018. He joined Bristol Rovers earlier this year.

Rovers has issued a statement regarding his court appearance. The spokesman said that the club has been told that the matter is under trial, and hence sub judice. Accordingly, the club is unable to comment on it any further. The spokesman also said that Barton is going to spend some time with his family. In his absence, Clint Hill will lead the team for Tuesday's "friendly against Havant and Waterlooville" match.

Many fans reacted to the statement on Twitter. One said that he is happy with this decision as he doesn't want a suspension or sacking. "This is the man to take us up and to greater things whether people like him or not." Another showed support to the Bristol Rovers manager, and wrote that Barton is not guilty until proven in court, and that he should be allowed to get on with his job. But, one user tweeted that this is the wrong call, and expressed disappointment over the club reacting "so softly to allegations of violence against women."