Peter Beardsley has taken a period of leave from his role as Newcastle United Under-23s coach while the club investigate claims of bullying and racism made against him.

The 22-year-old midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni lodged a complaint against the legendary former Magpies and England striker over an alleged incident during a team-building day.

Beardsley was called to a meeting with the club’s managing director Lee Charnley and head of safeguarding Steve Swinyard on Monday to give his account of what took place.

Newcastle released a statement on Tuesday which read: “After discussions with Peter Beardsley this morning it has been agreed that he will take a period of leave, to commence immediately, whilst the club conducts its investigation into allegations made against him.

“It would be inappropriate for the club to comment further until the conclusion of this investigation.”

Beardsley, who was born and bred in the north-east, made more than 300 appearances for Newcastle and won 59 international caps in a stellar career which also included periods at Liverpool and Everton.