TWO teenage footballers who sparked a "bullying" row at Newcastle United have decided not to appeal against a FA Premier League ruling clearing the club of any wrongdoing.

James Beaumont and Ross Gardner, who have subsequently been transfer-listed, had seven days in which to lodge an appeal following a tribunal which found that their contracts had not been breached.

The tribunal found in Newcastle United's favour and upheld an appeal against both players walking out on their contracts.

Beaumont, 18, from Eaglescliffe, Teesside, and South Shields-born Gardner, 17, had alleged bullying and intimidation, and said the behaviour of youth academy director Kenny Wharton and coach Peter Beardsley had breached their contractual arrangements with the club.

The players' solicitor, Chris Farnell, said: "They have both been in contact with their parents and came to the conclusion separately that they are not going to appeal."

Although the FA Premier League has delivered its formal verdict, a fuller adjudication is expected.

Meanwhile, the pair are likely to be top transfer targets for a number of clubs, with Newcastle thought to be seeking compensation if they go.