Joey Barton denies offensive X posts

Former footballer Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to posting a series of allegedly offensive comments on social media about pundits Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko, and broadcaster Jeremy Vine.

The 42-year-old stood in the dock at Liverpool Crown Court and answered "not guilty" to all of the 12 charges put to him.

The hearing followed a series of posts made in early 2024 on social media site X.

The former Manchester City and Newcastle United midfielder is accused of sending grossly offensive communications with the intention of causing distress or anxiety.

The latest hearing follows his denial via video link at Chester Magistrates' Court in January.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, X, and Instagram and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.