Trial date set for Republic of Ireland footballer Jeff Hendrick

Republic of Ireland footballer Jeff Hendrick will face trial in March over an alleged street row in Dublin.

Hendrick (23), who is originally from Kilmore in north Dublin, but now based in England where he plays midfield for Derby County, is accused of violent disorder at Harcourt Street in the city centre on October 12th, 2013. The 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.

His co-accused Jonathan Doran (24) of Kilmore Crescent, Artane, Dublin, is also charged with violent disorder at nearby Montague Street but also has an additional charge for assault causing harm to a named man in connection with the same incident.

Lawyers for both men entered not guilty pleas on their behalf on Tuesday.

Hendrick had been charged in September and his case was adjourned until today. However he and his co-defendant had been excused from having to attend the hearing at Dublin District Court.

Hendrick, who recently scooped the FAI 2015 Young International Player of the Year Award, was represented by Garret Baker BL.

Mr Baker told the court that a hearing date was required, meaning the case will be contested. He also said that the non-jury District Court trial would take “a minimum of one day”.

Solicitor Philip Hannon, for Mr Doran, also confirmed that his client would be seeking a hearing date.

Judge Michael Walsh was furnished with a medical report in relation to the allegation against Doran. Jurisdiction for the case to be kept in the District Court has been accepted.

Court Garda Sgt Zita Woods that as many as 24 witnesses could be called by the prosecution and Mr Baker said the number of witnesses to be called by the defence has yet to be determined but said “it could be several”.

Judge Walsh advised both parties to agree on the number of witnesses that will be required in advance of the District Court trial which will take place on March 15th next.

At Hendrick’s first court appearance in September, Garda Damian Beakey said the midfielder “ had no reply to the charge after caution and was given a true copy of the charge.”