Newcastle United midfielder Joey Barton will be prevented from facing Liverpool next month.

Barton's troubled season continues with the revelation that he will not be allowed to play at Liverpool next month because of the conditions of his bail. Barton has been charged with assault and affray for an alleged incident that took pace outside a restaurant in the city in the early hours of December 27.

He was initially refused bail by Liverpool magistrates but was granted it, with restrictions, at the third attempt. The restrictions were not revealed but Kevin Keegan has admitted they rule that Barton will not be allowed to play on Merseyside until after his case is heard.

"The only games he can't play are Liverpool and Everton, because of the restrictions the judge has put on him," admitted Keegan.

"Other than that, his training's really good, I'm really pleased with his attitude. This week, in particular, it's been outstanding. He's been training with us every day and he has been very good."