Pepe talk: Ben Foster calls for stability at West Brom

Mel urged his players to use Saturday's dramatic 2-1 win at Swansea as a springboard to survival as Foster revealed his delight at helping the Spaniard break his duck.

Saturday's game was Mel's eighth in charge and his failure to win, coupled with concerns from senior players about his methods, had seen his future called into question.

But, after Stephane Sessegnon and Youssouf Mulumbu's goals confirmed a remarkable turnaround for a 2-1 win at the Liberty Stadium, Foster said: "Another sacking is probably the last thing we need. There has been a lot of goings on, a lot said in the media, and the (Nicolas) Anelka thing. You don't pay too much attention to it.

"We are very happy for the club and Pepe needed that as well. It means a lot to him, it really does."

Mel's side move to 28 points, three clear of the drop zone.

Meanwhile, boss Mel today admitted the end of the Anelka saga can benefit Albion's survival bid. The Hawthorns head coach believes the departure of Anelka, who left the club on Friday with the Baggies claiming he was sacked, should remove a potential distraction.

Mel's comments came after news emerged the FA will appeal to FIFA to ensure Anelka does not escape punishment for his 'quenelle' goal celebration by moving countries.

Anelka said he had quit Albion, only for the club to claim they had sacked the Frenchman for 'gross misconduct' over the gesture at West Ham in December and Friday's tweets.

Speaking for the first time since Anelka's departure, Mel said: "My relationship with Nicolas was good and he helped me but I hope now the situation is resolved. The club needs all of its energy to move forward. We are professionals and not keeping West Bromwich Albion up would be a failure for everyone."

Anelka, who was banned for five matches and fined £80,000 by an independent commission which ruled the gesture was anti-Semitic, tweeted that he had terminated his contract to preserve his 'integrity'.

But late on Friday night, Albion issued a statement claiming Anelka had refused accept a fine and to apologise to sponsors, fans and the community in order to stay at the club.

Meanwhile, Albion youngster Liam O'Neil has thanked the club's coaches after making his dream Premier League debut in Pepe Mel's first win as boss.

Injuries to Billy Jones, Chris Brunt and Morgan Amalfitano meant the 20-year-old was named as a substitute at Swansea on Saturday.

And the midfielder, who joined the Baggies' academy from Histon, made his debut as an 89^th-minute substitute.

The Englishman said on Twitter: "Incredible feeling and what a win from all the lads. Amazing to make my Premier League debut.

"Massive thank you to everybody who has helped me get to this stage in my career. I love you all! God Bless."