Beardsley pulls out of meet the stars event over ‘personal situation’
STAR DUE ON STAGE WITH FORMER TOON LEGENDS
FOOTBALL favourite Peter Beardsley has pulled out of a scheduled appearance tonight at Newcastle City Hall due to his “personal situation”.
The Toon legend and coach of Newcastle United’s under-23s is currently on a “period of leave” from the club while an investigation into allegations of racism and bullying continue.
Beardsley, 56, a former England international and Newcastle captain, has categorically denied the allegations.
The former striker was due to appear along with fellow club legends Rob Lee, Keith Gillespie and John Beresford at City Hall as part of the “Newcastle Legends in Conversation” event this evening.
But a statement on the event page on the venue’s website has announced Beardsley will no longer be appearing.
Event details on Newcastle City Hall’s website reads: “We have been informed by the promoter of Newcastle Legends that due to Peter Beardsley’s personal situation he will no longer be appearing this event. The show will take place with, as previously announced, one of Newcastle United’s greatest ever midfielders, Rob Lee.
“Rob will be joined on stage by NUFC legends Keith Gillespie and John Beresford.
“Perry Groves from Talk Sport will be the compere for the evening.
“We look forward to welcoming you to an entertaining evening at Newcastle City Hall.”
Beardsley is understood to have faced the club’s managing director Lee Charnley on Thursday to discuss the allegations.
One of the complaints of bullying is believed to have been made by 22-year-old academy player Yasin Ben El-Mhanni, and five statements have been reportedly taken in support of the midfielder.
It is understood Beardsley could find out his fate this week.
Mirror Sport said the club is also looking into claims from several other players that they were victims of racial abuse.
It is understood the FA is monitoring the ongoing investigation, but the governing body is not required to get involved at this stage.
The FA is expected to request the Magpies’ observations once the investigation is complete.