Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty in court to the assault of former team mate Ousmane Dabo. The alleged attack took place on 1^st May and was reported by our site. It happened whilst Barton now with Newcastle United played for Premier League outfit Manchester City. The 24 year old has now been released on bail and will reappear early in October.

The training ground incident led to Manchester City suspending the player. Barton was later sold to Newcastle United in June for a £5.8 million fee. The player who has international appearances under his belt is currently out injured with a fractured metatarsal.