Assault case against Jim Magilton adjourned

While a defence solicitor for the 47-year-old asked for the case to be adjourned for a week to allow him to take instructions, a prosecuting lawyer told Antrim Magistrates’ Court there may be an “alternative disposal” in the case.

The current NI Under 21 manager and elite performance director at the IFA had been excused from attending court on Tuesday but the lawyers confirmed to District Judge Oonagh Mullan that he would have to be present when the case is next before the court.

Mr Magilton, from Aberfoyle Gardens in Belfast, is accused of common assault against his teenage stepdaughter on January 7.

During an earlier hearing a police officer gave evidence it was the police case that Magilton allegedly hit the 14-year-old “a couple of slaps to the head and allegedly dragged her down the stairs by the arms”.

Defence solicitor Fearghal MacElhatton said Mr Magilton “isn’t accepting the allegations made against him,” that he gave a “full account” during police interviews and that the charge “will be contested in full”.

The case was adjourned for a week.

Mr Magilton started his playing career with Liverpool and also played for Oxford United, Southampton, Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich Town. He also managed at Ipswich and QPR.

In his international career, he earned 52 caps and scored five goals.