He had already denied eight of the offences, but entered not guilty pleas again as 12 further charges were added to the indictment.

The former Crewe coach was charged with 14 counts of indecent assault, five counts of buggery and one count of attempted buggery.

The charges relate to four complainants who were boys under the age of 16 at the time of the alleged offences, which are all reported to have taken place between 1980 and 1987.

The case was adjourned to July 3, when a hearing will take place at Liverpool Crown Court.

Judge Roger Dutton said a trial was likely to be listed for January in Liverpool.

Bennell was remanded in custody.