Newcastle confirm Beardsley exit following bullying allegations
Beardsley had worked for Newcastle's Academy since 2009
Written by Simon Austin — March 6, 2019
NEWCASTLE UNITED have confirmed the departure of Under-23 coach Peter Beardsley - 14 months after after an internal investigation into allegations of racism and bullying made against him was launched.
In a short statement, Newcastle said they could “confirm that Peter Beardsley is no longer employed by the club”.
They added: “We are grateful for the contribution Peter has given over the years as a player, coach and ambassador and we wish him well for the future. The club will make no further comment at this time.”
In a statement released via his legal team, the 58-year-old added: "The time is now right for me to seek a new challenge and I wish the players all the best and the supporters the success they deserve.
"I have always honoured my contractual obligations of confidentiality to the club and maintained my silence, which has in itself been very difficult. I am incredibly grateful for the tremendous support I have received and I look forward to the future.”
However, no further details have been given about either the result of the internal investigation or whether Beardsley was sacked or simply left.
This mirrors the approach of Arsenal, whose U23 coach Steve Gatting and his assistant Carl Laraman left following an internal investigation into allegations of bullying made last May.
Again, the results of their investigation were not disclosed. Beardsley was suspended on full pay in January 2018, following the allegations made by members of his playing squad, including 22-year-old midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni.
The former England international, who made 326 appearances for Newcastle as a player, "categorically denied the allegations". Beardsley first joined Newcastle's Academy as a coach in 2009.
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