Joey Barton Ordered to Pay Eni Aluko Over £300,000 After Losing Libel Case
Former professional footballer and manager Joey Barton has been instructed to pay former England striker Eni Aluko a sum exceeding £300,000 in damages and legal costs. This ruling follows a libel case that Barton lost after being sued by Aluko over defamatory social media posts.
High Court Hearing Details
During a hearing at the High Court on Tuesday, it was disclosed that the case had been stayed, with Barton required to pay substantial damages and cover Aluko's legal expenses. Gervase de Wilde, representing Aluko, outlined that Barton had made two posts on the social media platform X in 2024, which falsely accused Aluko of cynically exploiting her status as an alleged victim of racism and bullying and labeled her a hypocrite.
Barton, who has managed clubs such as Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers, was not present at the hearing. Mr. de Wilde informed the court that Barton was arrested yesterday and is currently being held in custody, adding a layer of complexity to the proceedings.
Campaign of Vilification
The barrister further revealed that between January and August 2024, Barton published a total of 48 posts targeting Aluko on his X account. Mr. de Wilde described this as a deliberately targeted public campaign of vilification that attacked multiple aspects of her life and personality.
One particularly egregious post included an image of Aluko's head superimposed onto the body of serial killer Rosemary West. Mr. de Wilde emphasized that this campaign caused Aluko enormous distress, and when she attempted to defend herself, Barton criticized and attacked her for doing so.
Admission of Harassment
Mr. de Wilde stated that Barton has now acknowledged that his actions constituted harassment and that he should not have made the publications. Aluko expressed concern that any effort to stop the harassment would be exploited and manipulated by Barton against her.
Financial Penalties and Court Order
According to a court order reviewed by the Press Association, Barton has been directed to pay £339,000. The first installment of £100,000, plus interest, is due by March 24. Mr. Justice Lavender granted Barton a seven-day period to request changes to the order.
Eni Aluko, who attended the hearing in London, told the Press Association afterward, I'm glad it's the end, reflecting her relief at the conclusion of the legal battle.
