Eni Aluko has won the initial part of her libel lawsuit against Joey Barton after he claimed she was “playing the race card.”
The former Manchester City player, Joey Barton, was sued by sports commentator Eni Aluko following a series of posts he published on X in January.
Aluko argued that two of Barton`s posts were defamatory, including one targeting her family and background.
Barton, 42, labelled her a “race card player” and accused her of using the “victim card,” also saying “Cry me a f***ing river.”
He also asserted that “everyone is laughing at you” and that she had limited knowledge of men`s football.
Aluko has now won a portion of her case in the High Court after a judge determined Barton`s statements were defamatory.
Mr. Justice Lavender was asked to consider the “natural and ordinary meaning” of the posts.
Aluko, 38, welcomed the ruling, stating that the posts were an unjustified attack on her personal and professional identity, integrity, and family life, particularly her late father.
Barton may still appeal the decision and defend his remarks if the case proceeds to a full trial.
His lawyer previously described the claims as “strained, forced, and unreasonable.”
In a separate case, Barton has denied sharing “malicious” posts about Jeremy Vine, Aluko, and her colleague Lucy Ward.
The former footballer allegedly compared the pundits to Fred and Rose West and branded Radio 2 presenter Vine a “bike nonce.”
He is due to stand trial later this year at Liverpool Crown Court charged with 12 offences.
Barton started his football career with Manchester City in 2002 after going through their youth system and went on to make 150 appearances for the club.
He then moved to Newcastle United in a £5.8million transfer in July 2007 before leaving for Queens Park Rangers in August 2011.
The midfielder was then loaned to Marseille in France during the 2012-13 season before joining Burnley for one season, contributing to their promotion to the Premier League.
Barton made one appearance for England in 2007, despite voicing criticism of some of his fellow players.
Later, Barton pursued a management career with stints at Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers.
