Newcastle United have released a statement in the last few moments to address Peter Beardsley’s situation following allegations of racism and bullying of U-23 players, stating that he has now taken a ‘period of leave’ while the club investigate the case.
The 56-year-old has come under fire over the past week, after NUFC youngster (and five witnesses) have accused the u-23 coach of bullying and racial abuse.
Beardsley has met club officials over the past few days and the club have released the following statement as a result:
“After discussions with Peter Beardsley this morning it has been agreed that he will take a period of leave, to commence immediately, whilst the club conducts its investigation into allegations made against him
“It would be inappropriate for the club to comment further until the conclusion of this investigation.”
Some details of the allegations in question have been revealed, with the Mail’s Craig Hope sharing a disturbing claim that has been made by U-23 players from a squad trip to the Go Ape complex in Newcastle last year.
This includes allegations that Beardsley said “Why are you taking so long? Your lot should be good at this” when an unnamed African player was struggling to climb on the bars. Hope also revealed that Beardsley is alleged to have questioned the age of some African players in the U-23 set up.
To make matters worse, one former academy hopeful has since made contact with the club to share his experience of ‘bullying’ from the NUFC coach.
It’s not looking good for him, but I think it’s fair that he is kept away from the scene whilst the case is looked into.
