The controversy regarding Peter Beardsley’s behaviour while coach at Newcastle United has been taken to a new level as the Magpies are forced to hand over the documents regarding the internal investigation to the Football Association, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claim on their website that the FA have opened their own top level inquiry into allegations of bullying and racism by Beardsley towards players during his time as an academy coach, and that despite releasing an official statement confirming the former England international had left the club, the Magpies continue to be wrapped up in the controversy.
Newcastle did not release any information regarding their inquest into Beardsley but it is stated that Jenni Kennedy, the former police officer running the FA’s inquiry, has demanded all evidence to assist her.
Opinion
Surely the Magpies did not think that they could sweep Beardsley’s behaviour under the carpet by letting him go? The allegations against their former star – which include racism and bullying – are serious ones and while the perpetrator might be out of St James’ Park now it does throw up serious concerns about the quality of their safeguarding of their youngsters. Beardsley can expect a severe punishment coming his way if found guilty but Newcastle cannot consider themselves out of trouble just yet. Beardsley was an employee of the Magpies after all and if it is found they covered up or ignored allegations against his behaviour then they need to be sanctioned accordingly. It is a real grey cloud over the career of one of the best players ever to grace the pitch on Tyneside. The sooner that this whole incident is cleared up the better for everyone, not least the victims who will be frustrated about the lack of transparency offered by the Magpies.