Barton bailed after affray arrest (From The Oxford Times)

Barton bailed after affray arrest

10:53pm Monday 4th June 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

Premier League footballer Joey Barton has been released from police custody, following his arrest for affray.

The Queens Park Rangers midfielder, 29, was involved in trouble in the early hours while on a night out with his girlfriend in Liverpool city centre.

Two men aged 21 and from the Old Swan area of Liverpool were arrested on suspicion of a public order offence at around 5.30am at the scene of the incident, outside Garlands nightclub in the city.

But after they were held in custody and questioned, Barton and a 20-year-old man were also arrested.

Barton was released on bail pending further enquiries by Merseyside Police.

The three other men were bailed earlier.

A statement from the force, said: "Merseyside Police can confirm that the 29-year-old man arrested on suspicion of affray has been released on bail pending further inquiries."

Earlier, the Liverpool-born midfielder confirmed the incident by tweeting: "I got sucker punched in the back of the head. Not injured as reported just a small bruise on rear of head/ear. I've had worse. Life goes on! Thanks for the concern. Have a good day people."

Later he tweeted: "Not planning on pressing charges as it's not that serious. The police have also got better things to do with their time.

"Can I just say a public thanks to the police last night as they were and have been today brilliant."