The Republic of Ireland footballer, Roy Keane, has pleaded not guilty to charges of common assault, criminal damage and threatening behaviour at a Manchester court.
The Trafford Magistrates Court remanded Mr Keane on unconditional police bail after the hearing, which lasted less than five minutes.
In court, Mr Keane spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.
The charges relate to an incident on 4 September near Mr Keane's house at Hale in Manchester during which he is alleged to have assaulted a 16-year-old youth.
The District Justice, Justice Berg, today ordered that the identity of the boy not be revealed.
A pre-trial hearing that Mr Keane will not be required to attend has been set for 21 October. The trial date will be set later.
