From the Sun
PREMIERSHIP footballer Joey Barton appeared in court today charged with assault.
Newcastle United midfielder Barton appeared for a brief hearing at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester to set a trial date where he will face charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
He is accused of attacking then team-mate Ousmane Dabo during a training ground bust-up on May 1 this year while both were playing for Manchester City.
Richard Varden, prosecuting, said the earliest date a trial could be held was June 30 next year.
He added: "I realise it seems a long way away although it's a straightforward allegation, there is an additional factor in that the defendant is a Premiership footballer."
Mr Varden said the witnesses in the case would be other footballers. Judge Leslie Hull released Barton on unconditional bail to appear for trial next year.