The trial of Republic of Ireland footballer Jeff Hendrick over an alleged row on a Dublin street has been delayed after a medical report was sought by his co-defendant.
Hendrick (23), originally from Coolock in Dublin but now based in England where he plays for Derby County, is accused of violent disorder at Harcourt Street on October 12th, 2013. His co-accused is charged with violent disorder at nearby Montague Street and assault causing harm to a named man.
Hendrick had been charged in September and his case was adjourned until Tuesday but he had been excused from having to attend his latest hearing at Dublin District Court because he has a match on Wednesday.
His co-defendant, Jonathan Doran (24), of Kilmore Crescent, Artane, Dublin, was present.
Judge Patrick Clyne granted a six-week adjournment to both men to allow time for a dental report to be furnished for Mr Doran’s solicitor.
Hendrick, the FAI 2015 Young International Player of the Year, was excused from having to attend court on the next date A plea has yet to be entered.
At an earlier hearing, Garda Damian Beakey said Hendrick “had no reply to the charge after caution and was given a true copy of the charge.”
The court has heard that in Hendrick’s case, the DPP had decided the case should be dealt by way of “summary disposal”, meaning the case should be dealt with at district court level and not sent forward to the circuit court which can impose lengthier sentences.
His charge, under the public order act, involves an allegation of the use of, or the threat of violence, which could cause a person to fear for their safety.