Former Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs will face trial next year accused of deliberately headbutting his ex-girlfriend and controlling her throughout their relationship.
In a 15-minute hearing at Manchester Crown Court the date was fixed for proceedings to take place at the same court on 24 January 2022.
It is alleged that Mr Giggs, 47, assaulted Kate Greville, 36, and caused her actual bodily harm at his home in Worsley, Greater Manchester, on 1 November last year.
The Wales manager is also said to have engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour towards her between December 2017 and November 2020, namely that he used violence, isolation, belittling, humiliation, harassment, degradation and abuse
He has denied both allegations and previously issued a statement in which he said he would "look forward to clearing my name".
Mr Giggs has also been charged with the common assault by beating of Ms Greville's youngster sister, Emma Greville, in the alleged same incident on 1 November, which he also denies.
The Football Association of Wales has announced that caretaker boss Robert Page will manage the country at this summer's European Championship finals.
Giggs won 64 caps for Wales and had a glittering playing career with Manchester United, winning 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, four FA Cups and three League Cups.
He is also a co-owner of League Two side Salford City.
Mr Giggs is on conditional bail and must not contact Kate or Emma Greville, or go to any address where they are.
