Craig Bellamy says he has stepped down from his role as Cardiff City Under-18s coach as the club investigates alleged bullying. The former Wales forward has “categorically” denied the claim and vowed to clear his name in a statement released on Thursday morning.

Earlier this week, it was reported that the parents of a young English footballer have complained to the Premier League club about Bellamy’s behaviour towards their son, who has since left the club.

“I am aware of allegations that have been made against me via the media,” he wrote. “I understand the need for Cardiff City to undertake a full investigation in response to these allegations and – at my own suggestion – I have temporarily removed myself from my coaching position in order to cooperate fully with the club’s inquiry.

“Obviously, I am saddened both by the allegations and the manner in which they were made and I categorically refute them. I fully expect to return to my coaching role and have sought legal advice as to my position. I will be making no further comment until the full investigation by the club has concluded.”

The former Wales captain Bellamy, who won 78 caps for his country and counted Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle among his clubs, was appointed as Cardiff’s player development manager in 2016. At the time, the club’s chief executive, Ken Choo, said: “It’s felt that having somebody of Craig’s stature in this role can be of huge significance to us moving forward. We hope that our younger players will see Craig as a role model, somebody who’s playing career they want to emulate.”

A regular pundit on Sky Sports, Bellamy scored 19 goals in 78 games for Wales and also had successful club stints with Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle. He finished his career in 2014 at hometown club Cardiff, where he was a key figure in their promotion to the Premier League in 2013.