Joey Barton has been charged with wounding with intent after an assault that occurred near Huyton, Merseyside, on March 8, 2026. The incident took place close to the Prescot Golf Club, resulting in serious injuries to the victim, who is currently in stable condition.

Barton, 43, and another individual, Gary O’Grady, 50, have both been implicated in the assault. They are set to appear at Wirral Magistrates Court on March 10, 2026, as confirmed by Merseyside Police.

Emergency services responded to the scene at approximately 9 PM on the night of the incident. A neighbor reported that the area was cordoned off the following morning, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

Barton, known for his tenure with clubs such as Manchester City, Newcastle, and Rangers, transitioned into management in 2018. He managed Fleetwood Town and later Bristol Rovers until 2023, showcasing his involvement in football beyond his playing career.

The police statement regarding the charges noted, “We can confirm that two men have been charged following an assault in Huyton on Sunday night, 8 March.” This highlights the ongoing investigation and the legal proceedings that will follow.

Details regarding the circumstances leading to the assault remain unclear, and further developments are expected as the case progresses through the legal system. The community is awaiting more information on the incident and its implications for both Barton and O’Grady.

As the situation unfolds, the impact of this incident on Barton’s career and reputation in the football community will be closely monitored.

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“This communication is not believed to be credible, however this has led to understandable concern from some parents,” stated a representative from Sefton Council, addressing the recent bomb threats targeting schools in Liverpool. The threats have caused significant alarm among parents and school officials alike, leading to immediate responses from various educational institutions.

On March 9, 2026, Lipa School announced its closure due to a bomb threat, while Chesterfield High School entered a temporary lockdown after receiving a threatening email. These incidents are part of a broader investigation by Merseyside Police, who are looking into multiple bomb threats sent to schools across the city.

The threats referenced “multiple unnamed schools” in Liverpool and included alarming claims of bombs being planted both inside and outside these institutions. Despite the severity of the threats, police believe they are likely hoaxes. A 21-year-old man from Runcorn was previously charged in January for similar hoax emails sent to schools, raising concerns about a potential pattern in these incidents.

Ch Insp Phil Thompson reassured the public, stating, “We understand that parents and carers will be concerned and as a result we are liaising with all schools and providing advice and reassurance as enquiries continue.” He emphasized that there was no requirement for schools to close based on the information received, although many parents chose to take their children home following the threats.

In response to the situation, parents were advised not to collect their children from schools, a precautionary measure that some families disregarded as they rushed to ensure their children’s safety. The swift reaction from parents highlights the heightened anxiety surrounding school safety in the wake of such threats.

Sefton Council confirmed that all schools in the Sefton area were functioning as normal despite the threats, indicating that the situation was being managed effectively. However, the psychological impact on students and parents cannot be overlooked, as fears surrounding school safety continue to resonate within the community.

As investigations proceed, Merseyside Police have urged the public to refrain from sharing misinformation on social media regarding the threats, which can exacerbate panic and confusion. The authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of students and staff while navigating the complexities of these hoax threats.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments in the investigation, but the situation remains a priority for law enforcement and educational leaders in Liverpool. The community is left to grapple with the implications of these threats, as schools strive to maintain a safe learning environment amidst ongoing concerns.

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Liverpool is facing Galatasaray in the Champions League, which is a significant event for the team. The match marks the first leg of their last-16 tie and is set to kick off at 5.45pm GMT.

In preparation for this important fixture, Liverpool has named a 21-man squad for their trip to Merseyside. Notable players included in the squad are Gomez, Van Dijk, and Salah. However, there is some uncertainty surrounding Alexis Mac Allister, who was withdrawn with an injury in the previous match. Fortunately, his injury does not appear serious, and he has been included in the squad for the Galatasaray game.

Meanwhile, a separate issue has arisen in Merseyside concerning an email threat that mentioned schools in the area. The email did not specify any particular target, but it prompted a response from local authorities. Merseyside Police assessed the threat and determined it to be not credible, assuring the public that there was no need for alarm.

Sefton Council has urged parents not to collect their children from schools in response to the email threat, emphasizing that all schools in Sefton are functioning normally. Ch Insp Phil Thompson provided reassurance to parents, stating, “We understand that parents and carers will be concerned and as a result we are liaising with all schools and providing advice and reassurance as enquiries continue.”

In light of the email threat, a spokesperson from Chesterfield noted, “Upon discovery of the email this morning our leadership team took the decision to enter a temporary lockdown procedure, as is national policy, while emergency services were contacted.” This precautionary measure reflects the seriousness with which such threats are treated.

Sefton Council also issued a statement clarifying that the communication is not believed to be credible, but acknowledged the understandable concern it has caused among parents. They advised against actions that might lead to further unnecessary concern and disrupt learning.

As Liverpool prepares for their match against Galatasaray, the situation regarding the email threat is being monitored closely. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of the threat on local schools.

With the Champions League match approaching, Liverpool fans are hopeful for a strong performance from their team, while also remaining aware of the ongoing safety measures in place in the community.

The upcoming match is not only a test of skill for the players but also a moment for the community to come together amidst the concerns raised by the recent email threat.

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“I am writing to inform you that we have made the unfortunate decision to close the school today,” stated Claire McKendrick, headteacher of LIPA School, on March 9. This announcement came in response to a threat that prompted immediate action from school officials and local authorities.

Merseyside Police are currently investigating threats sent to several schools across the region, including LIPA School, which was forced to close due to a threat to cause harm. Although these threats are believed to be hoaxes, they are being treated as credible risks in light of heightened media attention surrounding the school.

McKendrick further emphasized the seriousness of the situation, saying, “Whilst these types of messages are, in most cases, hoaxes, the heightened media attention surrounding the school in recent days means we must treat this as a serious and credible risk.” Parents were advised to stay away from the school as police were seen inside the premises on the morning of the closure.

The closure of LIPA School is particularly significant as it is set to close permanently later this year following a government agreement with the school’s trustees. This decision has added an extra layer of concern for parents and the local community, who are already on edge due to the recent threats.

Chief Inspector Phil Thompson reassured the public, stating, “We understand that parents and carers will be concerned and as a result we are liaising with all schools and providing advice and reassurance as enquiries continue.” The police are actively looking to identify those involved in the threats made against the schools.

In a related incident, a man was attacked near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club on March 8, leading to the arrest of two men, aged 50 and 43, on suspicion of section 18 wounding. The victim was taken to the hospital for injuries to his face and ribs, further compounding the sense of unease in the community.

Merseyside Police reported that a number of schools received similar email communications regarding threats. Parents and guardians are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “If you have any information about these threats, you can call 101 or DM @MerpolCC on social media,” the police advised.

As investigations continue, the community remains on alert, with many hoping for a swift resolution to the threats that have disrupted the educational environment in Merseyside.

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