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West Brom issue Nicolas Anelka statement

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West Brom today insisted Nicolas Anelka would not repeat his controversial goal celebration again – but revealed the striker remains available during an FA enquiry.

moreThe 34-year-old is facing a possible FA ban and an investigation by the Metropolitan Police after performing after performing the 'quenelle' celebration during Saturday's 3-3 draw at West Ham.

A Baggies statement today read: "Nicolas was asked to explain his goal celebration by caretaker head coach Keith Downing within minutes of the game finishing at West Ham. 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."

The 34-year-old made the controversial 'quenelle' gesture after the first of his two goals at Upton Park, leading French minister for sport Valerie Fourneyron to condemn the gesture, describing it as "shocking" and "disgusting" through her official Twitter account.

Anelka claimed the gesture was simply a tribute to his friend, the controversial French comedian Dieudonne, who has been linked to anti-Semitism in his homeland and popularised the quenelle, which has been interpreted by some commentators, politicians and Jewish groups as a reversed Nazi salute.