Craig Bellamy steps down from Cardiff City U18s role following bullying allegations

The former Wales international refutes the allegations

Craig Bellamy has temporarily stepped down from his role as Cardiff City's under-18 coach, following accusations of bullying made against him. The former Newcastle, Liverpool, and Manchester City player says he will fully co-operate with the club's investigation, and that he categorically refutes allegations that have been made against him. https://twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1080761625777446912 "I am aware of allegations that have been made against me via the media," said Craig Bellamy in a statement to Press Association Sport. "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." He also confirmed he would be making no further comment until the investigation. Cardiff City manager Neil Warnock confirmed that an investigation will be held following a complaint regarding Craig Bellamy's behaviour towards a former youth player at the club, who has since left. BBC Sport Wales reports that all complaints of this type are immediately investigated at the club. The Daily Mail has reported that the player's parents made the complaint after claiming that Bellamy allegedly engaged in xenophobic behaviour towards their son, footballer Alfie Madden, who was 17 at the time. Madden's mother Debbie also claimed that Bellamy's behaviour during a meeting about their problems, was disappointing.

"Bellamy swore during the meeting. He was kicking his chair and slumped in it as if he wasn’t interested. He was like a spoilt kid in front of the headmaster," she said.

"At the end of the meeting he got up, never shook hands and walked away."

When asked about the matter, manager Neil Warnock stated that he was not aware of the details of the investigation. "Ken Choo, the chief executive, is dealing with this," he said. "It's not in my remit, I don't know anything about it." Bellamy made 78 appearances for Wales during his career, and spent two spells at Cardiff City, first while on loan from Manchester City during the 2010/11, before finishing his career with the club during two seasons from 2012 to 2014.