BEARDSLEY LIMBO

Toon coach could face new probe into claims of racism and bullying

THE Newcastle United player who claims he was bullied and discriminated against by Peter Beardsley is concerned by the outcome of the club’s investigation into his allegations and is considering an appeal.

Some of the complaints brought by winger Yasin Ben El-Mhanni have been upheld while others have not, despite witness statements from several team-mates supporting his claims. The results have not been made public.

Managing director Lee Charnley is continuing to investigate other allegations of racism against Beardsley made by African players in the club’s academy. Once that concludes, a decision will be made on the future of the Under 23s coach, who is currently suspended.

However, it is thought El-Mhanni and several other players are worried that Beardsley could return to coaching duties. Some have told

Sportsmail they would be forced to leave were that the case.

If El-Mhanni appeals it would involve another club employee looking at the case and it could then escalate to Premier League and FA level. The FA have contacted some of the players involved and are taking a closer look at the club’s probe.

Some players who gave statements were asked by the club if they, too, would like to make a complaint against Beardsley, but preferred to remain anonymous during the process.

The bullying allegations included one incident at a Go Ape treetop adventure course where El-Mhanni said: ‘I’m up so high I feel like I could die.’ Beardsley, on the ground, is alleged to have replied: ‘That would do us all a favour.’

There was another complaint where Beardsley was said to be laughing at El-Mhanni during a training session as he practised crossing.

Meanwhile, Beardsley was allowed to spend three days taking a UEFA coaching badge at St George’s Park earlier this month, a week after he was placed on leave by Newcastle.

It is understood the FA felt it would be wrong to deny Beardsley his presence on the course as, at the time, nothing had been proven against him.

The 57-year-old is due to return in March but that could depend on the outcome of the club’s probe. Beardsley denies the allegations. Meanwhile, Newcastle loan signing Kenedy had his medical yesterday and his Chelsea manager Antonio Conte hopes the youngster will continue his development on Tyneside. The Brazilian, 21, rarely features at Stamford Bridge but is a long- term target of Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez.

Conte said: ‘We are talking about a young player who has great potential. At this moment of his career he needs to play with great regularity, and to go to Newcastle is a great challenge. At the same time, he must know he must fight.’

NEWCASTLE have made further enquiries for Leicester City’s £20m-rated striker Islam Slimani and have asked about a loan for Everton’s Sandro Ramirez.