Former professional footballer and current podcast host Joey Barton has been taken into police custody following an alleged violent incident near a Merseyside golf course. The 43-year-old was arrested alongside another man on suspicion of section 18 wounding after emergency services responded to reports of an assault in Huyton.
Police Investigation Underway
Merseyside Police confirmed they were called to Fairway in the Knowsley area at approximately 9pm on Sunday, March 8th. Officers discovered a male victim with significant injuries to both his facial area and rib cage. The injured party required immediate medical attention and was transported to hospital for comprehensive assessment and treatment of his wounds.
Details of the Arrest
Law enforcement officials arrested two individuals at the scene - a 50-year-old man and 43-year-old Barton. Both suspects remain in police custody where detectives are conducting detailed questioning regarding the alleged assault. Police sources have identified the younger detainee as Huyton-born Barton, though formal identification procedures are still ongoing.
The incident occurred in close proximity to Huyton and Prescot Golf Club, prompting authorities to establish a security cordon on Fairway. Interestingly, the police perimeter was initially removed before being reinstated as the investigation progressed, suggesting evolving developments in the case.
Barton's Background and Career
Joey Barton enjoyed a substantial football career spanning 269 Premier League appearances, with 130 of those matches played for Manchester City. Following his retirement from professional play, Barton transitioned into management, taking charge of League One club Bristol Rovers for a period.
More recently, Barton has gained attention as a media personality through his Common Sense with Joey Barton podcast. The program regularly features discussions on football culture, political commentary, and social issues including what Barton terms "cancel culture" and grooming gang controversies.
Police Statement and Ongoing Enquiries
Merseyside Police released an official statement confirming: "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 statement continued: "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."
Section 18 wounding represents a serious criminal offense under UK law, typically involving grievous bodily harm with intent. The classification indicates authorities believe there was deliberate intention to cause significant injury rather than accidental harm.
Local residents reported seeing increased police activity throughout Sunday evening into Monday morning, with forensic teams examining the area surrounding the golf course entrance. The investigation continues as detectives piece together the sequence of events leading to the alleged assault and subsequent arrests.
