Newcastle United confirm Peter Beardsley departure amid allegations of bullying

Former Newcastle midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni had made a complaint against the former England striker earlier this year

Newcastle United have confirmed the departure of Peter Beardsley from the club.

The club legend, who made more than 300 appearances for the Magpies, served most recently as an Under-23 coach and was recently under investigation amid allegations of bullying.

Former Toon midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni lodged a complaint against Beardsley last year, with the club understood to have had a grievance meeting but failed to reveal the outcome of the investigation.

“Newcastle United can confirm that Peter Beardsley is no longer employed by the club,” read a club statement.

“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.”

Managing director Lee Charnley conducted the investigation and interviewed Beardsley, who denies the allegations, but has opted to leave the club and released his own statement.

He said: “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.

Peter Beardsley has left Newcastle United (PA)

“I am incredibly grateful for the tremendous support I have received and I look forward to the future.”