Peter Beardsley: Former Newcastle coach charged with using racist language by FA

Peter Beardsley made 326 appearances for Newcastle as a forward

Former Newcastle United Under-23s coach Peter Beardsley has been charged by the Football Association with three counts of using racist language to players.

Beardsley, who left United this month after a 14-month club investigation, has "categorically denied" the claims.

Anti-racism group Kick It Out had said it was "concerned" Newcastle had not revealed the reasons for his departure.

Beardsley faced multiple complaints, including one of bullying by 22-year-old midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni.

The FA said: "It is alleged Mr Beardsley used abusive and/or insulting words towards Newcastle United FC Under 23 players, which were contrary to FA Rule E3(1), whilst employed as their coach.

"It is further alleged these words also constituted an 'aggravated breach', which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as they included reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race and/or nationality."

The former England international has until 12 April to respond to the charges.

Beardsley, who had been U23s coach at Newcastle since 2009, had been on leave since a club investigation into racism and bullying allegations began last year.

After he left the club, Beardsley, who made 326 appearances for Newcastle as a player, said the "time was right to seek a new challenge".

Source: bbc.com