Beardsley skips tournament

PETER BEaRdslEy has withdrawn from the Hong Kong soccer sevens on the eve of the tournament.

Sportsmail reported yesterday that he was set to take part alongside Newcastle United Under 23s this week, with the Fa yet to confirm a date for his hearing into three charges of using racist and abusive language towards the club’s academy players.

But Beardsley has now informed organisers that he will not be attending tomorrow’s first round of matches, citing family reasons.

The 58-year- old’s planned trip had been a cause for concern and arrangements were made so that his PlayOn Pros masters team did not come into contact with Newcastle’s players at the Hong Kong Football Club.

The PlayOn team, put together by Viv anderson and including david James, darren Bent, Michael Gray and Emile Heskey, have also been forced to relocate from the Park lane Hotel where Newcastle and other participants are staying. Their squad is now one player short. Organisers felt powerless to prevent Beardsley’s involvement after anderson informed them that his former England team-mate would be part of his squad. They felt they could not be seen to pre-judge Beardsley’s case.

Beardsley, who denies the charges, had his contract terminated as Newcastle Under 23s coach in March after a 14-month inquiry into claims brought by several players.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have not included Beardsley on a limited edition print of 50 club legends given to executive box holders, even though he is one of their greatest players.