Joey Barton denies sending malicious tweets about football pundit Eni Aluko

Former footballer Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to a malicious communications offense in relation to tweets directed at female pundit Eni Aluko. Barton, 41, appeared at Warrington Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday charged with sending an indecent or offensive message between January 3 and January 8 in relation to posts he made on social media site X about the former female soccer player.

He appeared in the bench wearing a dark check suit and navy blue shirt and tie and spoke to confirm his name, address and date of birth to Deputy Chief District Judge Tan Ikram, as well as to elect that his case be heard at the crown court. after entering a not guilty plea.

Barton tweeted after Aluko and Lucy Ward were pundits for ITV for an FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton on January 4, comparing them to serial killers Fred and Rose West. In a follow-up tweet, he compared Aluko to Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot, prosecutor Joshua Sanderson-Kirk told the court.

Barton was told to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on August 27. Judge Ikram said: “Mr Barton I am referring your case to the Crown Court. You will appear at 9.30 on August 27th.

“I grant you conditional bail on condition that you do not make any mention of Eni Aluko on any social media and that is either directly or indirectly or by inference.

“I am imposing that condition to ensure that no more crimes are created. Make sure you’re there on time, please. If you fail to appear, a warrant may be issued. You are free to leave the court.”

Barton nodded to the judge as he left the courtroom with his lawyer Richard Derby. Aluko, who played for Chelsea and England, scored 33 international goals in 102 games before retiring in 2020 and establishing a career in television.

Former Manchester City and Newcastle player Barton, from Widnes, was sacked as manager of League One Bristol Rovers last October after nearly three years in charge following a run of poor results.