The English football system recently has experienced controversy left and right, but the most recent smear against against the sport is shaking the moral foundations of society.
After Andy Woodward's revelation about being abused as a child, a good number of players have stood up. As the issue continues to rattle football's supporters and pundits, another man stepped up to involve another giant club in the controversy.
EFL Championship side Newcastle United may find itself in the middle of the storm as a former Magpie has stepped up to relay his experience in the club's youth system. The complainant was definitely inspired by Woodward and the other ex-players who revealed themselves as victims of abuse.
A Northumbria Police addressed the Guardian regarding the issue: "We have received a report in relation to an allegation of historic [sic] sexual offences in Newcastle. We are working closely with, and supporting, the victim and enquiries are ongoing.
The victim identified George Ormond as the person who assaulted him. Ormond was convicted as a "predatory abuser" by a Newcastle crown court judge and was imprisoned in 2002. Like fellow paedophile Barry Bennell, Ormond was found to be abusing his power as a respected youth coach to get his way with talented youngsters.
SkySports reports that the football club is willing to cooperate with the authorities' investigation. A club statement was released, saying Newcastle United "will cooperate fully with the police and relevant authorities and provide every assistance we can if or when the club receives further information."
The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) started a new hotline for footballers who went through the sexual abuse. The FA, the English football authority, also endorsed the hotline.
