Newcastle United are set to stand by academy coach Peter Beardsley following an investigation into claims of racism and bullying, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper report that Beardsley could return to coach this coming season in a huge decision from the club, with the 57-year-old having been suspended since January.
The Mirror claim that there is growing discontent at the club and among parents over the investigation, which has lasted months instead of weeks following accusations from former Magpies winger Yasin Ben El-Mhanni.
This is a big decision from the club considering an appeal in January found Beardsley did make discriminatory comments to El-Mhanni, with several other players submitting written statements about his conduct.
OPINION
The investigation into the allegations against club legend Beardsley have been a stain on the club for months now, and it would be a hugely controversial decision if he ends up being allowed to return. Beardsley is obviously a legend at the club but by all accounts there is significant evidence against the 57-year-old, and allowing him to return will not be a good look for the Magpies despite the outcome of the investigation. The fact that the main complainant, El-Mhanni, has since been released by the Magpies is another point of contention, although there were always doubt over whether he would make a first-team impact at St. James’ Park. It is also no wonder that there is growing frustration at the club about the investigation, which has now lasted over six months after it was expected to be a relatively quick affair. All in all this has been a dark hour for the club and it’s academy, which Rafa Benitez has been so desperately trying to fix amid heavy opposition from owner Mike Ashley.
