A FOOTBALL director from Warrington has appeared in court to face perjury charges relating to a legal battle over a one million pound transfer deal.

Frank McParland, aged 55, who is currently Brentford director of football, only spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and address at Newcastle Magistrates' Court earlier this week.

McParland was joined in the court room by other powerful figures in the football world including former England coach Sammy Lee from Liverpool.

Agent Tony McGill, aged 56, is bringing a private prosecution against Bolton Wanderers chairman Phil Gartside, aged 62, from Northwich, and others from the club.

The case surrounds a protracted legal battle over McCann's transfer from Aston Villa to Bolton Wanderers in 2007 with McGill claiming he was cut out of the deal.

No pleas were entered and the case was sent to Newcastle Crown Court where it will be heard again in a fortnight.

Lisa Judge, representing the defendants from Bolton Wanderers, said: "There will be an application to dismiss forthwith."

The other defendants who have been charged with similar offences include agent Jerome Anderson, aged 56, from north London, lawyer Chris Farnell, aged 45, from Hale, agent Stephen Horner, aged 49, from Brindle, agent David Sheron, aged 62, from Rossett, agent Jeffrey Weston, aged 61, from north London and Bolton secretary Simon Marland, aged 55, from Chorley.