Joey Barton: Fleetwood Town manager 'emphatically' denies assault allegations

The alleged incident is said to have taken place in the tunnel at Oakwell

Fleetwood Town manager Joey Barton says he "emphatically" denies allegations he assaulted Barnsley boss Daniel Stendel.

Police are investigating an alleged tunnel altercation after Barnsley's 4-2 League One win at Oakwell on Saturday.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence and racially aggravated assault. He has been released on bail.

Barnsley complained to the Football Association and English Football League about the alleged incident.

After the game, Barnsley player Cauley Woodrow claimed on Twitter that Stendel had been "physically assaulted" and left with "blood pouring from his face".

Woodrow later deleted the tweet.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Barton said: "With regards to the alleged incident on Saturday following our game against Barnsley, I emphatically deny the allegations made."

He said it would be "inappropriate" to make any further comment.

The arrested man attended a police station on Wednesday and has been bailed until May.

South Yorkshire Police, who have not released the identity of the arrested man, have appealed for any witnesses with footage of the incident to come forward.

They said: "Officers investigating the incident would be keen to speak to anyone who may have caught the incident on camera or who may have mobile phone footage immediately before or after the incident occurred."

"We would ask members of the media and the public to refrain from speculation in relation to this incident, as it could potentially harm the investigation."