Kevin MacDonald has left Aston Villa following an investigation by the Premier League club into bullying allegations.
The club has apologised to former players affected by behaviour now not tolerated, including former midfielder Gareth Farrelly, who made allegations against MacDonald.
Farrelly alleged MacDonald was “incredibly aggressive, constant verbal and physical bullying”, telling the Guardian he took him ”to a place at 20 that nobody should have to go to. And I wouldn’t wish it on anybody.”
Villa had moved MacDonald, who was the head of football development, to a non-player facing role during the investigation and released a statement confirming his departure, as well as the beginning of the search for his successor.
It read: “Aston Villa wishes to apologise to all former players who were affected by behaviour which would not be tolerated by the Club today.
“Our approach to safeguarding is now unrecognisable from the past and has been described as excellent in recent EFL and Ofsted audits.”
Villa confirmed barrister Jack Mitchell had concluded the investigation.
“Barrister Jack Mitchell has now concluded and the results delivered to the board,” the club added.
“As the report forms part of an employee disciplinary process, the club is unable to provide details in public although copies of Mr Mitchell’s investigation have been provided to the FA, Premier League and statutory authorities.
“Mr Mitchell appealed for individuals to come forward to give evidence and we are especially grateful to those former players who assisted him in his investigation.”
