JOEY Barton has denied sharing “malicious” posts about Jeremy Vine and football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko.
The former footballer allegedly compared the pundits to Fred and Rose West and branded Radio 2 presenter Vine a “bike nonce”.
PAJoey Barton has pleaded not guilty to sharing offensive social media posts[/caption]
GettyHe allegedly targeted Eni Aluko[/caption]
GettyBarton is also accused of posting about Lucy Ward[/caption]
Barton appeared at Liverpool Crown Court today where he pleaded not guilty to 12 charges against him.
The 42-year-old is accused of sending grossly offensive communications with the intention of causing distress or anxiety.
Barton allegedly shared the posts on X in January, February and March last year.
He referred to Aluko and Ward as Fred and Rose West – calling both “serial killers”, the court heard.
Barton also allegedly claimed Aluko was “only there to tick a box” and compared both pundits to Joseph Stalin and Pol Pot”.
At the time, both Aluki and Ward were working as pundits for ITV on the FA Cup clash between Crystal Palace and Everton.
Eni bravely revealed she was seeking legal action after the barrage left her “scared”.
Vine was also caught up in a social media spat after Barton allegedly branded him a “big bike nonce”.
The former Man City star is due to stand trial later this year.
Barton started his football career with Manchester City in 2002 after going through their youth system and went on to make 150 appearances for the club.
He then moved to Newcastle United in a £5.8million transfer in July 2007 before leaving for Queens Park Rangers in August 2011.
The midfielder was then put on loan to French side Marseille during the 2012-13 season before making his way to Burnley for one season – helping promote them to the Premier League.
Barton made one appearance for England in 2007 – despite criticising some of his fellow players.
The footballer later attempted a management career with stints at Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers.
PAThe ex-footballer also allegedly called Jeremy Vine a ‘bike nonce’[/caption]
PABarton is due to stand trial later this year[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
