Goodwillie denies assault

former Dundee United striker David Goodwillie has pleaded not guilty to assaulting a man.

The 22-year-old, who joined Blackburn Rovers this month for about £2 million, is charged with assaulting John Friel, by repeatedly punching him on the head and body and kicking him on the body on 3 November last year in Queen Street, Glasgow.

His lawyer submitted a not guilty plea by letter to Glasgow Sheriff Court.

A trial date has been set for 28 October at the same court.

The case had been due to be called yesterday, but the letter was dealt with by court officials without the need for Goodwillie or his lawyer to appear.