Joey Barton's trial date has been moved back to June 7, 2021.

The Fleetwood Town manager was initially due to stand trial at Sheffield Crown Court this week for an alleged assault on then Barnsley head coach Daniel Stendel after the Reds' 4-2 win at Oakwell on April 13, 2019. He denies the charges. 

His case was today postponed by a year. Many cases, except for those deemed most serious, have been significantly delayed due to the coronavirus crisis. 

Judge Jeremy Richardson called it a 'most unfortunate situation' and admitted the delay was 'enormous'. He added: “There are particular factors in this case relating to witnesses and the defendant – this involves their occupations both past and present. This case – although serious for those involved – is not to be regarded as a priority case.”