A 14-year-old boy has pleaded not guilty to the manslaughter of Connor Saunders.
The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of punching Connor, of Downsway, Woodingdean, during an altercation in the street in Rottingdean, on April 14.
He entered his plea before Judge Anthony Scott-Gall at Hove Crown Court today.
Talented footballer Mr Saunders, 19, died at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton on April 15.
Singer Frankie Cocozza, 19, who was one of the pallbearers at his friend's funeral, said he was proud to learn that Mr Saunders had signed up as an organ donor when he turned 16, which meant he went on to save five other lives.
A provisional date for a trial, at either Lewes or Hove Crown Court, was set for October 15 and the teenager was released on technical bail.
Two other boys, aged 13 and 14, who were both arrested on suspicion of murder following Mr Saunders' death, were told by Sussex Police earlier this month that no further action would be taken against them at this time.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article