A jury found the 43-year-old had ‘crossed the line between free speech and a crime’ with six posts he made on X.

The TV and radio presenter said he stepped in to help football commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko.

The former Manchester City and Newcastle player, 41, will now face Liverpool Crown Court on August 27.

Barton compared Aluko and fellow pundit Lucy Ward to serial killers Fred and Rose West.