Former footballer Joey Barton has denied a charge of malicious communications linked to posts aimed at pundit Eni Aluko.
Barton, 41, appeared at the Warrington magistrates court facing accusations of sending an indecent or offensive message between January 3 and 8 related to his posts on X about the ex-England international.
Dressed in a dark checked suit with a navy shirt and tie, Barton confirmed his name, address, and date of birth to deputy senior district judge Tan Ikram. He opted for his case to be heard in crown court after entering a not guilty plea.
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Barton made posts after Aluko and Lucy Ward served as pundits for ITV during an FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton on January 4, allegedly likening them to serial killers Fred and Rose West. Following this, he compared Aluko to Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot, according to prosecutor Joshua Sanderson-Kirk who addressed the court.
Barton has been ordered to appear at Liverpool crown court on August 27. Judge Ikram stated: “Mr. Barton, I am referring your case to the crown court. You will appear at 9:30 am on August 27. I am granting you conditional bail with one stipulation: you must not mention Eni Aluko on any social media, either directly, indirectly, or by inference.
“This condition is put in place to prevent any further offenses. Ensure you arrive on time. If you fail to appear, a warrant may be issued. You are free to leave the court.”
Barton nodded at the judge as he exited the courtroom accompanied by his defense attorney Richard Derby.
Aluko, who played for clubs including Chelsea, scored 33 goals in 102 international appearances before retiring in 2020 and transitioning to a media career. Barton, a former player for Manchester City and Newcastle, was dismissed as manager of League One Bristol Rovers last October after nearly three years in charge.
