In detention awaiting trial, a former OM player becomes captain of the prison football team.

Former footballer Joey Barton, who was arrested on March 10th after an alleged assault, is currently awaiting trial in detention. In an unexpected turn of events, Barton, who used to play for Marseille and is now retired, has found a way to pass the time – he has become the captain of his team in prison.

The former English international player continues to make headlines even behind bars. He was placed in provisional detention after being arrested for an alleged assault on a 51-year-old man near a golf club in Liverpool. His trial is set to take place in September, and he pleaded not guilty in court last Tuesday.

Despite his legal troubles, Barton has not completely turned his back on football while in prison. According to a report by RMC Sport, he has quickly integrated himself into playing football with fellow inmates. Before his incarceration, Barton hosted a podcast, and his co-host Cabom now continues the show, revealing that Barton “plays a bit of football” informally with other inmates. “He’s losing some weight. He remains active. He’s a real machine,” Cabom added.

It seems that behind bars, the former Manchester City and Marseille player has gained some authority as he has reportedly become the captain of his prison team. The host also shared that Barton has been distributing his autobiography to other inmates for entertainment.

At 43 years old, Barton, who has a single international cap for England, has been known for his off-field controversies throughout his career. He has a history of convictions and violent incidents that have often overshadowed his football performances. Barton has previously been convicted for violent offenses and for making “seriously offensive” comments on social media a few years ago. In 2025, he was also found guilty of domestic assault against his partner during an argument in 2021, resulting in a 12-week suspended prison sentence.

This time, he is facing charges for alleged deliberate assault, in the company of Gary O’Grady. Emergency services were called on the evening of March 8th when a man was seriously injured in the face and body. As he awaits the outcome of the legal process, Joey Barton seems to have rediscovered his love for football in prison.