Latics’ chief scout held after punch-up

ARRESTED . . . Paul Butler Picture: Yorkshire Post

OLDHAM Athletic’s chief scout has been arrested on suspicion of assault after an alleged punch-up at a school charity event.

Ex-Republic of Ireland international Paul Butler (37) was detained after police were called to an incident at a school’s PTA fund-raiser at an up-market golf club near his home in Knutsford, Cheshire.

The retired player was arrested just after midnight on Saturday, September 18, and taken to a police station before being released on bail after being interviewed.

A fellow guest at the Knutsford Oktoberfest at Mere Golf Club, Knutsford, is reported to have suffered a broken nose and a split lip and is intending to press charges.

Oldham Athletic manager Paul Dickov named the former defender as his chief scout in July. He is self-employed and works freelance for the club.

Manchester-born Mr Butler played for Sunderland, Rochdale, Bury and Wolves and was captain of Leeds United before moving to Milton Keynes Dons on loan and then joining Chester City.

An Oldham Athletic spokesman said the club could not comment while a police inquiry was ongoing.