Peter is told to take time off
18-year-olds looked 26. And during a day out at an adventure course, he allegedly asked the pair: “Why are you taking so long? Your lot should be good at this.”
It is understood that more players are considering making complaints about their coach’s conduct over the past year.
Newcastle managing director Lee Charnley is taking evidence from several members of Beardsley’s Under-23 squad, many of whom are backing up their team-mates. No decision is expected this week.
Beardsley reported to the club’s training ground as normal yesterday but within minutes he was ordered to St James’ Park for talks with Charnley, their second meeting inside 24 hours.
It was there he was told to stay away while the investigation is ongoing. He returned to the club’s training ground but did not come into contact with his players.
Beardsley has been one of the few former Toon players to openly support Mike Ashley’s tenure as Newcastle owner, a view that has not gone down well with the vast majority of fans who idolised him during two spells with the club.
It is understood that on at least one occasion when a manager left St James’ Park, Ashley considered handing him the job on a caretaker basis despite his lack of experience.
This is his second spell as an academy coach, having initially returned to the club in 2009 in an ambassadorial role.
Beardsley insists he is innocent, claiming he is the victim of “inaccurate media reports which result from unauthorised leaks”.
A statement issued through his solicitors said: “Allegations of unfair treatment have been made, which are currently being investigated. Peter Beardsley categorically denies the allegations.”