Joey Barton has now been granted bail. The 25 year old Newcastle and England midfielder spent a week in jail following an assault in Liverpool over Christmas. He was earlier refused bail by magistrates who viewed him as a danger.

Barton is due back in court on 16^th January where he could return to prison if convicted. Brother Andrew was also arrested in the incident which occurred on 27^th December. Barton has missed 2 games for Newcastle United so far but is not expected to return to the club until after his hearing.