Peter Beardsley made 326 appearances for Newcastle as a player
Allegations of racism and bullying made against former Newcastle coach Peter Beardsley are being investigated by the Football Association.
Beardsley, who coached Newcastle's Under-23 side, left the club on 6 March. He had been on leave since a club investigation began last year.
The ex-Newcastle and England forward has "categorically denied" the claims.
Beardsley faced multiple complaints, including one of bullying by 22-year-old midfielder Yasin Ben El-Mhanni.
A spokesman for English football's governing body told BBC Sport: "We can confirm that the FA is investigating the allegations made against Peter Beardsley during his time at Newcastle United."
Anti-discrimination charity Kick it Out has expressed concern that the Premier League club have not outlined the reasons for 58-year-old Beardsley's departure.
In 2003, Beardsley and academy director Kenny Wharton faced a Premier League investigation over allegations of bullying made by youth players James Beaumont and Ross Gardner but the case was dismissed.
Beardsley made 326 appearances for the Magpies as a player.
Source: bbc.com