Joey Barton charged over social media post

Retired footballer Joey Barton has been charged in connection with allegations relating to social media posts.

Mr Barton, 41, is charged with two counts of sending malicious communications relating to BBC presenter Jeremy Vine and former England footballer Lucy Ward.

Cheshire Police said Mr Barton, who is originally from Houghton, Merseyside, but now lives in Widnes, Cheshire, will appear at a magistrates’ court at a date yet to be decided.

The midfielder played for clubs including Manchester City, Newcastle United, Queens Park Rangers, Burnley and Rangers and went into management after his retirement.