Joey Barton to be charged with two counts of malicious communications

Joey Barton is set to appear in court after being charged with two counts of malicious communications.

The former Manchester City footballer, who is well known for his outspoken views on social media, has been summoned to court following a police investigation.  

The charges relate to reports of alleged malicious communications online between Wednesday 3 January and Wednesday 20 March, against broadcaster Jeremy Vine and former England footballer Lucy Ward. 

The 41-year-old did not appear at a short 15-minute hearing at Liverpool Crown Court this morning, Liverpool Echo reported. 

He is set to appear at Magistrates Court at a later date.

Responding to the news on X, Barton claimed the charges were 'woke nonsense', before telling his 2.8million followers 'see you in court'. 

Cheshire Police said in a statement: 'A man from Widnes has been summoned to court to face charges of malicious communications.

'Following an investigation by Cheshire Police, the Crown Prosecution Service has authorised for Joseph Barton to be charged with two counts of malicious communications.'

The statement added: 'The charges relate to reports of alleged malicious communications online between Wednesday 3 January and Wednesday 20 March, involving two victims.

'The 41-year-old...will appear at Magistrates Court at a later date.'

Barton launched a series of social media posts in December last year and earlier this year criticising female pundits working in men's football. 

Barton played 435 games during an acrimonious career, playing for the likes of Manchester City, Queens Park Rangers and Newcastle and earning one England cap. 

The former midfielder was also the manager of Bristol Rovers from February 2021 until his sacking in October last year, following a run of poor results.