FOOTBALL manager Joey Barton has pleaded not guilty to assaulting his wife.

The Bristol Rovers manager, of Widnes, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court in south-west London today, on Monday morning via video link.

The charge against Barton, 38, relates to an incident at a residential property in Kew, south-west London, on June 2 in which his wife Georgia suffered a head injury.

Barton spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

He wore a t-shirt and shorts during the hearing.

Barton was released on unconditional bail until his trial at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on December 16.