Former Footballer Joey Barton Arrested Over Alleged Serious Assault
Former professional footballer turned podcaster, Joey Barton, has been arrested in connection with an alleged serious assault incident. The 43-year-old was taken into custody following reports of an attack near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club in Merseyside.
Details of the Incident
Emergency services were called to the scene in Huyton at approximately 9pm on Sunday, March 8, 2026. Merseyside Police officers responded to reports of a man having been assaulted near the golf club. Upon arrival, they discovered a victim with injuries to his face and ribs.
The injured man was promptly transported to a hospital for further assessment and treatment of his wounds. Police have not disclosed the current condition of the victim or the severity of his injuries.
Arrests Made
Officers arrested two men at the scene - aged 50 and 43 - on suspicion of section 18 wounding, which refers to causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Sources have confirmed to local media that the younger of the two men is Huyton-born Joey Barton.
Both individuals remain in police custody where they are being questioned by detectives. Merseyside Police have stated that enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
Joey Barton's Background
Joey Barton enjoyed a lengthy professional football career, making 269 appearances in the Premier League. He played 130 matches for Manchester City among other clubs during his playing days. Following his retirement from professional football, Barton served as manager of League One side Bristol Rovers for a period.
More recently, Barton has gained attention as a media personality, hosting the "Common Sense with Joey Barton" podcast. On his show, he discusses various topics including football analysis, cancel culture debates, grooming gangs, and political commentary.
Police Statement
Merseyside Police released an official statement regarding the incident: "We can confirm that two people have been arrested following reports of an assault in Huyton on Sunday 8 March. At around 9pm, emergency services were called to Fairway to reports of a man having been assaulted near to Huyton and Prescot Golf Club."
"The victim was taken to hospital for assessment of injuries to his face and ribs. A 50-year-old man and a 43-year-old man have both been arrested on suspicion of s18 wounding. They are both currently in custody where they will be questioned by detectives. Enquiries are ongoing into the incident."
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault and the involvement of the arrested individuals.
