Rodriguez fears
ALAN PARDEW fears Jay Rodriguez’s reputation could be wrecked by the racial abuse charges he is facing. West Brom striker Rodriguez (left) strenuously denies racially abusing Brighton star Gaetan Bong and is prepared to go to court if necessary.
He faces a minimum fivematch ban if found guilty by an independent three-man FA Commission. But Baggies boss Pardew warned: “It’s not just
about us losing Jay for five games, it’s a bit more serious than that – his future after the game, whether he wants to be a coach or go into business.
“It’s a serious accusation, so he wants to defend it. He’s adamant to me and he hasn’t changed his tune or his statement or anything. He has been consistent from the moment he has stepped off the pitch.”
Cameroon star Bong claims Rodriguez said, “You’re black and you stink” following a collision between the two players which saw the West Brom man pinch his nose and waft his hand in front of his face.
Pardew admitted he was even worried to talk about the case in too much detail, such is the seriousness of the allegation.
He said: “At the moment he’s angry but he’s OK. We’re in that world where everyone has to be so careful and I’m even nervous talking about it now.
“We need to make sure, for the two guys, that we understand the seriousness of the situation.”
Rodriguez is stunned that the matter has gone this far and immediately vowed to fight the charge and prove his innocence.
The former Southampton star posted on Twitter: “Absolutely gutted and in disbelief at the situation I find myself in.
“I 100 per cent deny the false allegation and will take the correct legal advice to prove my innocence.”
Bottom-of-the-table West Brom face Chelsea on Monday night and Pardew says he has no qualms about picking Rodriguez.
He added: “It’s a situation which is not ideal for Jay. It’s an accusation he denies and we’re going to support him.
“It’s a process which needs to be seen through and our comments can affect it, so the less we say, the better.
“Jay is upset about it. He has a good mental capacity to deal with things and hopefully he can concentrate on his football and not worry too much, although it is a worry.”