What Peter Beardsley allegedly said to leave his Newcastle future in limbo over racism and bullying claims
Toon Under-23s boss is being investigated following multiple complaints about his conduct from his own players
PETER BEARDSLEY’S Newcastle future was shrouded in doubt after a hearing over claims of racism and bullying.
Beardsley, 56, met with the club’s managing director Lee Charnley and head of safeguarding Steve Swinyard at St James’ Park yesterday afternoon, leaving around 3.30pm.
But Newcastle have put off making a decision on whether or not to suspend or sack him until they have spoken to academy players.
The pressure for the Premier League club to act quickly was eased when last night’s Under-23s home match with Middlesbrough — which Beardsley was due to take charge of — was cancelled because of a frozen pitch.
But the former England and Toon striker now faces the awkward situation of taking training today with youngsters who have made allegations against him.
Winger Yasin Ben El-Mhanni, 22, made a complaint after claiming he had been bullied by Beardsley.
Several of his team-mates supported that allegation — and one former player has contacted the club about how he was treated during his time there.
TOON STAND OFF Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez told he must sell players before he can sign any new recruits
Other players have accused their coach of racist abuse, including Togo-born defender Yannick Aziakonou, 18.
One of the incidents was alleged to have happened during a team trip to the Go Ape adventure course.
Seeing two African players struggling on a climbing frame, Beardsley allegedly quipped: “Why are you taking so long? Your lot should be good at this.”