The Football Association has confirmed it will open an investigation into an accusation that the West Brom forward Jay Rodriguez made a racist remark to the Brighton defender Gaëtan Bong.
The governing body said Martin Atkinson, the referee, included in his report a mention of an alleged incident after he was made aware of it during Saturday’s match at The Hawthorns. In a statement, the FA said it would “begin making inquiries into the matter”.
The incident took place during the second half of West Brom’s 2-0 victory. Rodriguez pinched his nose after clashing with Bong, who alerted the match officials moments later. The West Brom forward looked shocked at the time and it is understood that he has been left dumfounded and outraged by Bong’s accusations, which he vigorously denies.
Brighton have offered Bong their full support. They view the 29-year-old as a principled and trustworthy person and have vowed to stand by the player during the FA investigation.
Speaking after the match, Chris Hughton, Brighton’s manager, said: “Gaëtan Bong has reported Jay Rodriguez for something that has been said to him. It’s been handled in the correct manner by the referee. The referee is aware of what the allegations are and that will go through to the FA.”
Alan Pardew, Albion’s manager, said: “There’s been an allegation made by the Brighton full-back to the referee and that allegation will go to the FA. I can only say on my behalf, because I haven’t seen the incident, knowing Jay Rodriguez I find it very difficult to understand if I’m honest. Jay Rodriguez claims the allegation, whatever the allegation is, is untrue.”