Express & Star

Chris Hughton: Gaetan Bong's racism row with West Brom stiker Jay Rodriguez 'in the past'

Brighton boss Chris Hughton insists the racism row between Gaetan Bong and Jay Rodriguez is very much in the past ahead of the FA Cup clash with West Brom.

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Rodriguez and Bong clashed during their encounter in the Premier League last season.

Seagulls full-back Bong alleged he was racially abused by Baggies striker Rodriguez during a Premier League match at The Hawthorns in January of last year.

The charge was found to be "not proven" by the Football Association, although the governing body said it was satisfied Bong's complaint was "made in absolute good faith".

Rodriguez is in line to face Bong and Brighton for the first time since the incident during Saturday's fourth-round tie at the Amex Stadium.

"There have been issues before and we are all very conscious of that," said Hughton.

"But that was something in the past, I think it has to be that way.

"It was dealt with by the FA, I would have to say very, very well.

"We certainly couldn't have had any complaints with the way that it was dealt with but it's something in the past.

"That will be one of many, many football incidents that are in the past that you have to be able to move on from and I would expect everybody to feel the same."

Brighton captain Bruno, who played alongside Cameroon international Bong in that match, echoed the sentiments of his manager.

"It's gone. We cannot stick with things like this," said the Spanish defender.

"Of course it was a big deal at that time but it's time to forget. That's done for him (Bong)."