A Liverpool Crown Court judge refused to grant bail to former professional footballer Joey Barton on Friday as he awaits trial on a charge of grievous bodily harm with intent. The 43-year-old ex-midfielder allegedly assaulted Kevin Lynch, a 51-year-old headteacher and father of two, during an incident at Huyton and Prescot Golf Club earlier this month. Judge David Potter delivered his ruling in open court following a hearing that was largely conducted in private. Barton, who previously played for Manchester City and Queens Park Rangers, remains in custody where he has been held since his initial court appearance. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say The alleged assault took place on March 8 at the golf club in Merseyside. According to information presented at Liverpool Magistrates' Court, Mr Lynch sustained facial injuries during the incident, with medical assessments indicating he could potentially lose vision in one eye. The severity of the attack prompted a significant emergency response, with numerous police officers dispatched to the golf club premises. Forensic investigators subsequently sealed off the venue and conducted a thorough examination of the grounds searching for evidence. LATEST SPORTS NEWS: England make blunder while announcing squad for Uruguay and Japan matches Ronnie O'Sullivan smashes 22-year-old snooker record as opponent and commentator stunned Luke Littler breaks silence on booing darts fans after beating Gerwyn Price in Dublin Local residents reported hearing sounds of a man in distress and observed blood pooled on the street prior to the arrival of emergency medical personnel. Barton first appeared before Liverpool Magistrates' Court on March 10, where he was charged and remanded into custody. His barrister, Simon Csoka KC, represented him at Friday's bail application, though the former England international did not attend the hearing in person. The court proceedings were predominantly held behind closed doors before Judge Potter announced his decision publicly. Barton is scheduled to return to Liverpool Crown Court on April 7 for his next appearance. The charge against him is assault occasioning grievous bodily harm with intent, one of the most serious non-fatal offences under English law. Gary O'Grady, a 50-year-old roofer described as Barton's friend, faces the same charges but was granted conditional bail following the magistrates' court hearing. The pair were both charged in connection with the alleged attack on Mr Lynch at the golf club. During his playing career, Barton earned a single cap for England and turned out for several prominent clubs including Newcastle United, Rangers, Burnley and French side Marseille. The former midfielder's time in professional football saw him feature in both the Premier League and top-flight competitions abroad before his retirement from the sport. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter