Tax debt forces John Barnes into bankruptcy

Former Liverpool and England footballer John Barnes has filed for bankruptcy with HMRC as the main creditors.

The one-time rapper claimed the declaration is an "oversight", reported the Liverpool Echo.

HMRC petitioned for the bankruptcy order over unpaid tax bills to the High Court on Wednesday 14 October.

"The bankruptcy issue is a tax oversight which is being dealt with,” said Barnes.

Just five days previously, Barnes was sacked as Tranmere Rovers manager, having been in the role since June this year, alongside fellow ex-Liverpool player Jason McAteer who was assistant manager.

An Insolvency Service spokeswoman is reported to have said that they are working towards disposing of his assets and repaying his creditors.

An insolvency practitioner is set to be appointed later this year with Barnes in touch with HMRC over repaying the debt. He will be automatically discharged from bankruptcy on 14 October 2010.

While on a seven-month contract with the Jamaican national side last year, Barnes avoided a significant driving fine for driving without insurance and pleaded poverty despite earning an estimated £4,000 a week. He claimed that as Jamaican coach his wages varied substantially.

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