Joey Barton in Court Over Offensive Messages to Vine and Lucy Ward

Joey Barton was in court yesterday. He is a former England footballer. He is accused of sending offensive messages. Lucy Ward and Jeremy Vine also received them. Ward is a pundit, and Vine works for Radio 2.

Barton, age 42, spoke briefly, giving his name and birthdate during the 20-minute Liverpool court hearing.

The messages were allegedly sent via X/Twitter between January and March 2024. These messages, they claim, were indecent or grossly offensive and meant to cause distress.

Judge Andrew Menary renewed Barton’s unconditional bail. Barton lives in Widnes, Cheshire. Another hearing is scheduled for March 14.

A separate trial is set for May, involving alleged malicious messages sent to Eni Aluko, another pundit.

Barton played for Man City starting in 2002 after coming up through their youth system. He made 150 appearances for them.

He moved to Newcastle United in 2007 for £5.8 million. In 2011, he left for QPR.

During the 2012-13 season, he went on loan to Marseille in France. He also played for Burnley for one season, contributing to their promotion.

Barton played once for England back in 2007. Later in his career, he managed Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers.