England legend John Barnes faces bankruptcy over unpaid debt | The Sun

ENGLAND legend John Barnes is facing bankruptcy over an unpaid tax debt.

The former Liverpool ace, 59, is the subject of a bankruptcy petition from HM Revenue & Customs.

It is not known if Barnes will oppose the petition or choose to settle his debts to avoid being declared bankrupt.

During a brief hearing at London’s High Court yesterday, HMRC officer Megan Vanderhook said: “There has been no contact from Mr Barnes, but his agent has requested an adjournment.”

The case will resume on February 27 next year so the dad-of-six can take insolvency advice.

Barnes had a lucrative playing career, winning 79 England caps during the 1980s and 90s and twice winning Footballer of the Year.

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The Jamaica-born midfielder has since tried his hand as a manager, author, commentator and pundit.

He was declared bankrupt in 2009 over tax debts just days after being fired as head coach at Tranmere Rovers.

At the time, Barnes said the issue was a “tax oversight”. The order was later rescinded.

According to Land Registry documents, the World in Motion rapper was also the subject of bankruptcy petitions in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2019.

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He returned to Anfield as a club ambassador last month.

Barnes said: "I loved representing LFC as a player and I’m relishing the prospect of wearing the beloved Liver bird crest on my chest once again – albeit on a suit this time around."

An HMRC spokesperson said: "We take a supportive approach to dealing with customers who have tax debts, and do everything we can to help those who engage with us to get out of debt, such as offering instalment plans.

"We only petition for bankruptcy as a last resort."

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