Joey Barton Arrested Following Alleged Assault Near Liverpool Golf Club
Huyton, Merseyside – Former Premier League midfielder Joey Barton, 43, has been arrested by Merseyside Police following an alleged assault at a golf club near Liverpool on Sunday evening. The incident, which left one man with facial and rib injuries, has prompted an ongoing investigation and Barton remains in custody as of Tuesday morning.
The arrest of Barton, a controversial figure throughout his playing and managerial career, comes as no surprise to those familiar with his history of off-field incidents. He previously played for Manchester City, Newcastle United, Queens Park Rangers, Burnley, and Marseille, earning one cap for the England national team. More recently, Barton has managed Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers, and hosts the podcast ‘Common Sense With Joey Barton.’
Details of the Incident
According to a statement released by Merseyside Police, emergency services were called to Fairway, near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club, around 9:00 PM on Sunday, March 8th, following reports of an assault. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries to his face and ribs. Police confirmed that two men, a 50-year-old and a 43-year-old, were arrested on suspicion of Section 18 wounding – a charge relating to grievous bodily harm with intent.
The Daily Mail reported that Barton “could have been acting in self-defense,” and suggested the possible presence of a weapon at the scene. However, this remains unconfirmed as the investigation continues. It’s key to note that these are early stages of the inquiry, and all details are subject to change as more information becomes available.
Barton’s Recent Legal Issues
This arrest is not Barton’s first encounter with the law. In December 2023, he was handed a six-month suspended prison sentence for posting “graveley offensive” messages on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). That conviction stemmed from online behavior deemed to be harassing and threatening. This latest incident adds to a pattern of controversy that has followed Barton throughout his career.
The Daily Mail also reported on a High Court hearing on Tuesday, where Gervase de Wilde, representing former England forward Eni Aluko, informed the court of Barton’s arrest. De Wilde stated that his instructing solicitor received notification from a duty solicitor at a Liverpool police station shortly before the hearing commenced.
A Career Marked by Controversy
Joey Barton’s career has always been defined by a blend of undeniable talent and frequent controversy. On the pitch, he was a tenacious and skillful midfielder, known for his function rate and passing ability. However, his aggressive playing style often led to clashes with opponents and disciplinary issues.
Off the field, Barton has faced numerous challenges, including a prison sentence for assault in 2008. He has also been outspoken on social and political issues, often attracting criticism for his views. His podcast, ‘Common Sense With Joey Barton,’ provides a platform for his often-unfiltered opinions, further cementing his reputation as a polarizing figure.
What’s Next?
The investigation into the alleged assault is ongoing. Merseyside Police have not released any further details about the incident or the potential charges Barton may face. He remains in custody as of Tuesday, March 10th, 2026. Further updates will be provided as they become available. The incident is likely to raise further questions about Barton’s future in football, both as a manager and a public figure.
For those following the story, Merseyside Police are the primary source for official updates. ArchySport will continue to monitor the situation and provide accurate, verified reporting as the case develops.
