NEWCASTLE United footballer Joey Barton today appeared in court accused of assaulting a former team-mate in a training ground bust-up.

The 25-year-old appeared at Trafford Magistrates Court in Manchester to face a charge of assault on Ousmane Dabo earlier this year.

The England and United midfielder has already indicated he will deny the charge.

Barton, of Widnes, Cheshire, spoke only to confirm his name and personal details during the five minute committal hearing.

Liverpool-born Barton was arrested after the incident at Manchester City's training ground complex on May 1.

The assault charge carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in jail if he is convicted.

The player was suspended by Manchester City after the alleged incident and sold by the club to Newcastle in June in a £5.8 million deal.

He is now playing in reserve games to restore his fitness after suffering a fractured metatarsal in his left foot during a pre-season friendly.

Barton has said he ''strenuously denies'' the allegation.

JPs committed his case to Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on November 22.