Geordie icon Beardsley suspended by Newcastle over racism claims
PETER BEARDSLEY has been suspended by Newcastle after concerns were raised that he would continue to coach the academy players who have accused him of racism and bullying.
Sportsmail can reveal the club were contacted by a representative of one of the youngsters who has brought the allegations against the Under-23s boss, asking why he had not been suspended following meetings on Monday.
some of those players were alarmed when the car they were travelling in followed Beardsley’s into the academy training ground yesterday morning.
They did not expect to come face to face with the 56-year-old in light of the investigation into his conduct.
Beardsley, wearing his training kit, was subsequently summoned to st James’ Park, where he met managing director lee Charnley.
The club had f ailed to suspend Beardsley 24 hours earlier following a hearing in which the allegations were put to him.
They included claims that, during a trip to the Go ape adventure course, he said to an african player struggling on a climbing frame: ‘Why are you taking so long? your lot should be good at this.’
But, amid mounting pressure, Newcastle r eleased a statement confirming Beardsley would not continue in his role, although the coach — who denies the allegations — has agreed to take a ‘period of leave’ on the understanding he would be suspended had he not. It is expected he will be sacked if the allegations are proven.
‘after discussions with Peter Beardsley this morning, it has been agreed he will take a period of leave, to commence immediately, while the club conducts its investigation into allegations made against him,’ said Newcastle’s statement. ‘It would be inappropriate for the club to comment further until the conclusion of this investigation.’
The club will now hear from yasin Ben El-Mhanni, who has accused Beardsley of bullying and making a racist comment. The 22-year- old is being supported by statements from five team-mates.
academy players have also been reassured the matter is being dealt with in the appropriate manner by the club, especially following their concern at the delay in removing Beardsley from their training complex while the investigation continues.
Sportsmail was told that news of his suspension was met with ‘relief ’ yesterday.
Newcastle have been aware of concerns among the players since last year and head of safeguarding steve swinyard has travelled with the team to matches. Sportsmail can also reveal that a former Newcastle academy player who claims he was bullied by Beardsley has made contact with the Fa, PFa and the club.
He has called on the PFa to support the players who have brought the claims and has asked the Fa to take a closer look at the case.
Beardsley was represented by the PFa during his hearing and his solicitors released a statement denying the allegations.
‘ Peter Beardsley i s aware of inaccurate media reports which result from unauthorised leaks,’ they said. ‘allegations of unfair treatment have been made, which are being investigated. Peter Beardsley categorically denies the allegations. It is hoped the investigation will conclude quickly.
‘Peter Beardsley will not be making any further comment at the present time and until investigations conclude. Peter respectfully requests that his privacy and that of his family are respected.’