The former Liverpool and Newcastle player has been charged with three breaches of FA regulations after using language that included ‘reference to ethnic origin, colour, race and/or nationality’

Peter Beardsley has been charged by the Football Association with three breaches of their regulations over “abusive and/or insulting words” that included “reference to ethnic origin, colour, race and/or nationality”.

The former Liverpool, Everton and Newcastle United player, who won 59 caps for England between 1986 and 1996, recently left the Magpies earlier this month by mutual consent, 14 months after the club placed him on gardening leave following allegations of bullying and racism by youth players.

In a statement released on Friday, the FA said: “Peter Beardsley has been charged with three breaches of FA Rule E3.

“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.”

Beardsley has been given until Friday 12 April to respond to the charges.

A formal complaint was made about Beardsley by midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni, who has since left the club, in January last year.

The 58-year-old has denied the allegations.

“I’m not a bully, and I’m not a racist,” he said at a public speaking event in Gateshead this month.

A statement by his solicitors, released at the time his period of leave began when Newcastle launched their probe, said: “Peter Beardsley categorically denies the allegations. It is hoped the investigation will conclude quickly.”