Pepe Mel breaks silence over West Brom turmoil

West Brom boss Pepe Mel ditched his English as he broke his silence after a fortnight of turmoil at The Hawthorns.

moreMel spoke largely in his native Spanish as he was quizzed on behind-the-scenes discontent and the suspension of striker Nicolas Anelka.

In his first press conference since tensions with players were revealed, director of technical performance and scouting Dave McDonough left the club and Anelka was suspended over his controversial 'quenelle' celebration, Mel answered just one question in English.

In previous weeks the Spaniard had tested out his English extensively but today relied largely on a translator.

Anelka is deciding whether to appeal against his five-match FA ban after the gesture at West Ham was ruled as anti-Semitic.

He has been suspended by the Baggies and Mel was advised by the club to limit his answers.

The Spaniard said: "The club gave said to me they have maximum respect for the decision of the FA.

"We think Nicolas is a magnificent footballer and what we want is everything resolved as well as possible for all parties."

Asked whether Anelka would appeal, Mel said: "I don't think so but I can't answer these questions. It's best that Richard Garlick (sporting and technical director) answers these questions."

Mel held a series of meetings with his players in the last two weeks after senior squad members raised concerns over the Spaniard's on-field communication and high-pressing approach.

The revelation has raised doubts over Mel's future but the former Real Betis man said: "The meetings are part of my role as head coach.

"The most important thing for a head coach is players – I'm extremely interested to find out what they think. And it's intelligent to try to adapt the style of play to what they most want.

"They are small things but they will make us better because it will make the players more comfortable.

"Recently it was commented that being a head coach is a risky business. I came here extremely excited to do a good job – and I'm certain I'm going to carry this out."

Mel has injury doubts over captain Chris Brunt and midfielder James Morrison ahead of tomorrow's Hawthorns clash with Manchester United.

Brunt is suffering from fatigue after international duty while Morrison has an adductor problem.

Billy Jones (hamstring) and Diego Lugano (knee) were already ruled out.