ERIC Cantona, the mercurial French soccer star and captain of Manchester United, kept his famous stubble and upturned collar away from Liverpool County Court yesterday as Mr Tom Doyle, a salesman, alleged assault and battery and claimed damages arising out of a fracas in the bar of a hotel at Chester in May 1994.
Mr Cantona protested his innocence through his solicitor but stayed at home, fearing what his solicitor described as a media circus.
Mr Doyle demanded £1,000 (plus interest) in compensation for the disputed assault and was awarded £350 (plus interest) by District Judge David Gee after a hearing in chambers.
Mr Cantona and other United players went to Chester races in May 1994 at the invitation of a jockey, Walter Swinburn, and later adjourned to the Moat House International Hotel.
It is understood Mr Doyle claimed in court that he was attacked in the bar, was grabbed round the neck, slapped on the face and suffered a scratched arm.
After the award, Mr Doyle made no comment but his counsel, Mr James Byrne, said "He is very pleased with the judgment today. He believes he has been vindicated."
Mr Cantona's solicitor, Mr Simon Mather, said outside the court that Mr Doyle had rejected an offer of £1,000 plus £25 interest, made without admission of liability, before yesterday's hearing.
He added. "Eric Cantona strongly denies these allegations and has defended the action throughout.
"[He] realised his attendance at today's hearing was only likely to result in a media circus and he endeavoured to avoid subjecting himself, his colleagues and the court to that."