NEWCASTLE United midfielder Joey Barton remains in police custody tonight in connection with an allegation of assault.
The 25-year-old was one of three people arrested in Liverpool in the early hours of today.
It is understood that he was detained along with a member of his family and a woman friend.
The former England international was reported to be partying in his home city after being ruled out of Newcastle's 1-0 defeat at Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day with an ankle injury.
A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: ''Two males aged 25 and 19 and a women aged 27 were arrested at 5.30am today on Church Street in Liverpool City Centre following an allegation of assault.
''All three remain in custody for interview and processing and I expect a decision on charges or release will be made later tonight.''
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