Cardiff City youth coach Craig Bellamy steps down over bullying claims

Reports say Welsh club received a complaint against Bellamy over his alleged treatment of a young English player who has since left the club

Craig Bellamy denies claims of bullying at Cardiff City and has vowed to clear his name. Reuters

Cardiff City Under 18 coach Craig Bellamy has denied allegations that he bullied an academy player but stepped down from his role on Thursday pending an investigation from the Premier League side.

British media reports said Cardiff had received a complaint against former Wales captain Bellamy over his alleged treatment of a young English player who has since left the club.

Cardiff have begun an investigation and former Manchester City, Liverpool and Newcastle United striker Bellamy said that he was fully cooperating.

"I am aware of the allegations that have been made against me via the media," Bellamy said in a statement.

"I understand the need for Cardiff City to undertake a full investigation in response to these allegations - and my own suggestion - I have temporarily removed myself from my coaching position in order to co-operate 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."

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Bellamy said he had sought legal advice as to his position and expected to return to his role once the investigation had been completed.

The 39-year-old Welshman retired from playing in 2014 following a two-year stint with his hometown club Cardiff before taking up a coaching role in their academy.

Elsewhere, Southampton striker Charlie Austin has been charged after appearing to make an obscene gesture towards Manchester City supporters, the English Football Association said on Thursday.

Austin was caught making a two-fingered gesture towards a section of booing away fans at St Mary's while being substituted during Southampton's 3-1 Premier League defeat on Sunday.

"It is alleged that Mr Austin's gesture in or around the 68th minute of the fixture was abusive and/or insulting," the FA said in a statement.

Austin has until 6pm on January 7 to respond to the charge.