The trial of three Leeds United footballers charged with assaulting a student is due to start today.
Midfielder Lee Bowyer (24) who has played for England Under-21s, defender Jonathan Woodgate (21) of Middlesbrough and reserve team striker Tony Hackworth (20) are charged with grievous bodily harm with intent on Mr Sarfraz Najeib (19).
Mr Najeib, of Rotherham, south Yorkshire, was injured in an attack in Leeds city centre in January last year.
The three footballers all deny the these charges, and affray.
England international Woodgate and his Leeds team mate Michael Duberry (25) have also pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to pervert justice.
Two other men, Neal Caveney (21) and Paul Clifford (21) both of Middlesbrough, deny causing grievous bodily harm with intent, affray and conspiracy to pervert justice.
The trial of the six men is being held at Hull Crown Court. It is due to last up to six weeks. The first week is expected to be taken up with legal argument. PA