Star denies assault claim

Manchester United footballer Roy Keane today denied assaulting a 16-year-old boy, causing criminal damage, and using threatening or abusive behaviour when he appeared before magistrates in Trafford, Greater Manchester.

The 33-year-old Irish international is alleged to have clashed with the teenager near his £1.4 million home in the wealthy Manchester suburb of Hale on Saturday, September 4.

Keane was accused of assaulting the boy close to Hale golf course and damaging a neck-chain worth £20.

Keane, who wore a grey suit with a blue shirt and blue tie, confirmed his name and address to the court before pleading not guilty to the three charges.

The case was adjourned to a pre-trial review on October 21 at Trafford Magistrates' Court.

Keane was released on unconditional bail.