A Newcastle United footballer who is accused of taking part in a bar brawl should not be tried in the city in case supporters end up on the jury, the prosecution has said.
Rolando Aarons, 21, who earns around £15,000 a week, is charged with violent disorder along with six others following an alleged fight in the VIP area of Livello Bar in Newcastle.
The winger, who is represented by Toby Hedworth QC, appeared in the dock at Newcastle Crown Court to deny the offence, as did all the co-accused.
Ian West, prosecuting, said the trial, which could last two weeks, should not take place in Newcastle - and suggested it should be held 40 miles away in Teesside.