Raiders coach Tom Cable talks with owner about allegations of violence

ALAMEDA, Calif. - Coach Tom Cable said Wednesday that he has spoken with Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis about allegations that Cable has a history of violent behaviour toward women.

"What we talked about is between us and we'll keep it that way," he said.

Cable said the conversation came within the past two days and that his job status was not discussed. Cable said he plans to coach the team for the remainder of the season.

The Raiders are undergoing a "serious evaluation" of allegations made to ESPN by Cable's first wife, Sandy Cable, and former girlfriend, Marie Lutz, that the coach physically abused them at various times during their relationships.

Cable acknowledged striking Sandy Cable with an open hand in a statement on Sunday. Cable said the altercation happened more than 20 years ago and was the only time he's ever touched a woman inappropriately. He stood by that statement Wednesday, declining to answer any questions on the topic.

In other news, running back Darren McFadden(notes) (knee), receiver Chaz Schilens(notes) (foot) and offensive lineman Robert Gallery(notes) (leg) all returned to practice on a limited basis. Cable expects all three to be able to play when the team returns from its bye to face Kansas City on Nov. 15.

Defensive end Greg Ellis(notes) underwent arthroscopic surgery on his injured knee Wednesday and the team won't know his status until next week.

Cable also said that Samson Satele(notes) will remain the starting centre when Gallery returns. Chris Morris(notes) began the season as the starting centre before moving to guard when Gallery broke a bone in his leg on Sept. 20 against the Chiefs. Cable said Satele has been a bright spot for the team of late.