Newcastle midfielder Lee Bowyer yesterday denied breaching the Public Order Act in an on-the-pitch incident with team-mate Kieron Dyer.

The 29-year-old entered the plea in his absence during a brief hearing at Newcastle Magistrates' Court. Bowyer's non-appearance in court had been agreed by all parties beforehand.

He denies breaching the Public Order Act during the Magpies' 3-0 defeat by Aston Villa at St James's Park in April last year. Bowyer was charged with a Section Four public order offence after the match.

The charge states that Bowyer intentionally caused harassment, alarm or distress to Dyer. Tony Glover, prosecuting, told the magistrates: "We are here for a not-guilty plea to be entered in Mr Bowyer's absence. His absence has been agreed by the court."

Mr Glover said a 30-minute pre-trial review was needed, in which issues, including the number of witnesses required, could be discussed. It will take place on April 18 at Newcastle Magistrates' Court.

Magistrates yesterday agreed that the player would also not be required to attend the pre-trial review.