FA PROBE RODRIGUEZ RACE STORM

THE FA has opened an investigation into allegations of racism against Jay Rodriguez made by Brighton’s Gaetan Bong. The defender complained to referee Martin Atkinson on the hour in Saturday’s game after West Bromwich’s Rodriguez pinched his nose and wafted a hand during a confrontation. Bong gave his version of events on French television last night. ‘There was a lot of tension between the players because it was an important game,’ Bong told SFR Sport. ‘He was upset because I blocked him and after that he said some words. He said racist comments. ‘I looked for the referee to tell him. First the referee told me to get back in position. I didn’t accept that so easily. I am a black man. We’re in 2018 and we cannot tolerate this. I hope there will be sanctions.’ Bong added: ‘He did that because of the colour of my skin. I asked him to repeat what he said and I think he realised what he said and tried to limit the damage. And I replied to him, “No, what you said was racist”. ‘At the end of the game he tried to say, “No I didn’t say that”. But I said, “You can’t say that. Not to a human being. And most of all not to a black man, at this period, with everything that is happening in the world”.’ Rodriguez vehemently denies any wrongdoing. A source said he was ‘deeply upset’ such an accusation has been made. The FA will study Atkinson’s match report before deciding whether to take action. West Brom boss Alan Pardew said: ‘I know Jay so well, I find it hard to believe. He says it is untrue.’ Brighton boss Chris Hughton confirmed: ‘Bong has reported Jay Rodriguez for something that was said to him.’ The incident overshadowed West Brom ending their 20-match winless run with goals from defenders Jonny Evans and Craig Dawson. Evans’s header from a Matt Phillips corner could be a parting gift for West Brom, should Manchester City or Arsenal meet Pardew’s asking price this week. Hughton is looking to sign at least one forward after another limp Brighton attacking display.