Ex-Liverpool & Wales star accused of taking thousands of pounds without return & failing to donate money from charity skydive

Harding, who is now known by her married name of Allen-Wyatt, has been accused of taking "thousands of pounds" for coaching services that were ultimately not fulfilled. An investigation by BBC Sport found money was paid for one-to-one coaching sessions with children that simply did not happen. Allen-Wyatt has admitted "some sessions" were cancelled but also warned parents action would be taken against them for any complaints made on social media. Allen-Wyatt is also accused of raising £3,770 for a charity skydive and failing to pass the money on, while former team-mates have also alleged that money was lent to Allen-Wyatt and not paid back, leading to a breakdown in relations and her omission from the Wales squad in 2022.

Allen-Wyatt hung up her boots in 2023 after a career that saw her win over 100 caps for Wales and play for a host of clubs including Cardiff City, Bristol Academy, Manchester City, Liverpool, Reading and Aston Villa. She went on to set up the Tash Harding Academy in August 2023 which did run some sessions with young children but parents have also alleged many services that were paid for went unfulfilled. The investigation found Allen-Wyatt used a litany of excuses for not delivering, including "car crashes, lack of pitch availability, schedule clashes, her hen party and her wedding".

The FAW issued a statement in response to the allegations: "The Football Association of Wales and Cymru Women’s National Team players and staff are disappointed by the allegations surrounding one of our former players. As a WNT squad that represents our country with pride and look to inspire the younger generation, it has been extremely disappointing to hear the allegations. The actions of the individual in question do not represent us as a squad or our values, and some of those actions have also impacted ourselves, our families, and friends. The FAW is aware of allegations surrounding the player in question and has liaised with the police regarding any potential illegal activity.

"Throughout the process of being made aware of the allegations, the FAW has signposted the individual to appropriate support services. Current WNT players affected by the actions of the former player have also been offered regular support throughout the process via our safeguarding and player welfare team.

"The actions taken by the academy subject to the BBC investigation were in no way affiliated to the FAW.  However, the FAW would encourage those potentially affected to reach out for support but also advise that any potential illegal activity should be reported to the police in the first instance."

Allen-Wyatt also allegedly received "hundreds" of pounds of sponsorship money from businesses in Wales to use their names on kit and banners but many received nothing in return and some only a photo of a shirt featuring their logos.

Allan-Wyatt has not responded to the many allegations but has said her academy is still “delivering local sessions". Meanwhile, Gwent Police have received an allegation of fraud which has been passed to Action Fraud - the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.