Football star flies home after denying Greek isle brawl

England star Harry Maguire yesterday appeared in court in Greece to deny charges relating to a late-night brawl and an alleged attack on police officers.

The Manchester United captain, 27, was released on bail after being arrested in the early hours of Friday along with two others following an incident when three policemen were allegedly attacked. He appeared in court on the neighbouring island of Syros yesterday morning.

He is expected to fly back to Britain in a private jet after the case was adjourned for three days. It is understood Maguire is facing misdemeanour charges and does not have to attend Tuesday’s hearing.

In a statement, his club said: “Following the appearance in court today we note the adjournment of the case to allow the legal team to consider the case file.

“Harry has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It would be inappropriate for the player or club to comment further while the legal process takes its course.” Reports suggest trouble flared after the younger sister of the footballer was injured when rival fans started taunting him.

The Hellenic Police allege one of their officers was hit as he tried to break up a disturbance and that the three men later resisted arrest by “pushing and beating three officers”.

In a statement, police said there was more violence after the three arrests and claimed that one of the detainees then tried to offer money so that the trial against them would not be completed. Maguire played for Sheffield United, Hull, Wigan and Leicester before joining Manchester United in a record-breaking £80 million deal last summer. He was named captain midway through the campaign.

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, top, leaves court yesterday; playing for club, left; and with sister Daisy, who was reportedly injured when trouble flared on Greek holiday island