A TEENAGER accused of murdering pupil Yousef Makki in Hale Barns has appeared in court.

The 17-year-old defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, entered a not guilty plea during a short hearing at Manchester Crown Court on Monday morning.

He appeared in court via a video link from an undisclosed location.

The defendant was previously granted conditional bail.

The trial is due to be held at Manchester Crown Court on June 18, before High Court judge Mr Justice Bryan.

The defendant wore a black suit, white shirt and black tie. He spoke to enter his plea, confirm his name and say he could hear the proceedings clearly.

His barrister, Alistair Webster QC, asked that the defendant's bail be slightly varied.

Judge David Stockdale QC allowed the defendant's curfew to be varied on some days from 6pm to 8am, to 6pm to 7am.

This change will only take effect on days when his lawyers have arranged to meet him in advance.

Bail was granted to the defendant by Judge Stockdale at an earlier hearing.

As part of his bail, the defendant is not allowed to enter Greater Manchester unless 'to attend court or to attend prearranged appointments.

Student Yousef, 17, died after he was found injured on Gorse Bank Road, in Hale Barns, Trafford, on Saturday, March 2.

The teenager, from Burnage, was described as 'dearly loved' and 'incredibly bright' in a statement released by his family at the time.

Hundreds of mourners gathered for the youngster's funeral at the Dar Al Hadi Foundation in Ardwick.

He was taking A-levels in four subjects and wanted to pursue a career in medicine.