Tuesday, 31st December, 2013
West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka has agreed to stop celebrating with his "quenelle" gesture as the FA begin their formal investigations.
The FA are believed to be looking into allegations that Anelka's celebration – an inverted Nazi salute – during a game against West Ham had any racial or anti-semitic intent.
Anelka yesterday denied he is racist, insisting the celebration was in tribute to his friend and French comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala, who is a famous user of the gesture.
West Brom, who have their own internal probe ongoing, said in a statement: "Nicolas was asked to explain his goal celebration by caretaker head coach, Keith Downing, within minutes of the game finishing at West Ham.
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"Nicolas said that he performed the gesture to dedicate his goal to a friend and vehemently denied having any intention to cause offence.
"Upon reporting for training this morning, Nicolas was asked by sporting and technical director Richard Garlick to give a full explanation about his goal celebration, during which he again strongly denied intending to cause offence.
"The club fully acknowledges that Nicolas’ goal celebration has caused offence in some quarters and has asked Nicolas not to perform the gesture again. Nicolas immediately agreed to adhere to this request.
"The club is aware that the Football Association is investigating the matter and has offered its full co-operation. The club will continue to make its own enquiries – a process which will remain confidential between the club and Nicolas.
"Nicolas is eligible for matches whilst the FA carries out its investigation. Therefore, Nicolas will remain under consideration for first-team selection whilst the FA and club continue their enquiries."
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