TV football pundit Lucy Ward has told a court she felt 'scared and vulnerable' after former footballer Joey Barton compared her to serial killers on social media. The experienced commentator feared attending matches following posts where Barton likened her to Fred and Rose West.
Speaking at Liverpool Crown Court, Ward described the situation as 'constant harassment and bullying' that left her 'physically scared.' She worried about Barton's 2.7 million Twitter followers who might 'pile in' to support his views.
Barton, 43, faces serious charges in the ongoing case. He's pleaded not guilty to 12 counts of sending grossly offensive messages targeting Ward, fellow pundit Eni Aluko, and broadcaster Jeremy Vine.
Serial Killer Comparisons Shocked Commentator
The controversy erupted in January 2024 when Barton called Ward and Aluko the 'Fred and Rose West of football commentary' after an FA Cup match between Crystal Palace and Everton. He even posted images with their faces superimposed onto photos of the notorious killers.
'I knew that Fred and Rose West had tortured, sexually abused and murdered children. I could not work out why I was being called that,' Ward testified. 'It was getting to the point where I was physically scared. I felt vulnerable when I went to games.'
Ward, who played for Leeds United before building a 20-year broadcasting career, feared the real-world consequences of such public attacks. 'You do not know how people will react in this day and age,' she explained to the court.
Defense Questions Commentary Qualifications
Barton's defense team, led by Simon Csoka KC, questioned Ward about differences between men's and women's football. When asked about the 'vast difference' between the games, Ward replied with a pointed joke: 'Yes, the women win things.'
The defense suggested Barton was using the serial killer reference as a metaphor for 'murdering' the commentary. Ward strongly rejected this interpretation, stating: 'I was being compared to serial killers who murdered children just for amusement. It is massively offensive and it goes over the line.'
The case highlights the growing issue of online abuse directed at female sports commentators. Ward's testimony revealed the real emotional toll such harassment can take on professionals in the industry.
Barton, who played for Manchester City and Newcastle during his career, maintains his innocence. The trial continues at Liverpool Crown Court with significant implications for how public figures express opinions about sports commentators online.
