Beardsley still taking training despite race row
NeWCaStLe UNIteD’S hierarchy will hear how Peter Beardsley allegedly made a racist comment to one of his players during a trip to the Go ape adventure course at their investigation into the club’s Under 23 boss this week.
one former academy hopeful has made contact with the club to allege that he, too, was bullied by Beardsley.
Sportsmail revealed yesterday that african players in the club’s academy had made allegations of racial abuse against Beardsley. It is understood one of those players is togo-born Yannick aziakonou, an 18-year-old defender.
Beardsley met with chief executive Lee Charnley and head of safeguarding Steve Swinyard at St James’ Park yesterday in a hearing which lasted a couple of hours.
However, no decision was taken on the 56-year-old’s future and he was not suspended, meaning he is set to take training today with the same players who have brought complaints against him. the club will speak to those players this week.
Sportsmail also reported that five of Beardsley’s players have given witness statements in support of Yasin Ben el-Mhanni, who accuses the former england international of bullying. el-Mhanni, 22, has his grievance meeting on thursday.
Last night’s Under 23 fixture at home to Middlesbrough was postponed because of a frozen pitch. el-Mhanni had been told he would not play in the game, despite featuring in back-to-back victories in December. one former academy hopeful has been in touch with el-Mhanni to offer support. the player alleges that he, too, was bullied by Beardsley and has told el-Mhanni he is right to speak out.
the Premier League are aware of the club’s current investigation but are not involved at this stage.
If Newcastle find the allegations against Beardsley to be proven, it is expected he will lose his job. the club declined to comment.