Joey Barton Charged with GBH Following Alleged Assault Near Golf Club

Former professional footballer Joey Barton has been charged with grievous bodily harm (GBH) following an alleged assault in Merseyside, England. The incident occurred near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

Details of the Incident

Merseyside Police responded to reports of an assault at approximately 9:00 PM on Sunday evening. A man sustained serious injuries to his face and body and was transported to a hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition .

Charges and Suspects

Joey Barton, 43, from Widnes, and Gary O’Grady, 50, from Huyton, have both been charged with wounding with intent . Both men are accused of section 18 wounding with intent. They are scheduled to appear in Wirral Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 .

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Barton’s arrest came shortly before a High Court hearing regarding a libel claim involving the former footballer and Eni Aluko. Gervase de Wilde, representing Ms. Aluko, informed the court that Barton was taken into custody by police in Liverpool on Monday . Barton previously managed Bristol Rovers and currently hosts the podcast “Common Sense With Joey Barton.”

Police Statement

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police confirmed the charges, stating, “We can confirm that two men have been charged following an assault in Huyton on Sunday night, 8 March. At around 9pm, emergency services were called to Fairway to reports of a man having been assaulted near to Huyton and Prescot Golf Club.”

Barton’s Football Career

Joey Barton had a notable career as a midfielder, playing for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, QPR, Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille. He also earned one cap for the England national team .