Jay Rodriguez: 'I will prove my innocence' over racial abuse claim
Albion striker Jay Rodriguez tonight vowed to 'prove his innocence' as he fights accusations he racially abused Brighton defender Gaetan Bong.
The FA today charged the forward after the pair were involved in a spat during Albion's 2-0 victory over the Seagulls at The Hawthorns on January 13.
But Rodriguez, who has found his form for the Baggies netting five goals in his previous eight games, says he is determined to clear his name.
In a statement issued on his Twitter account, Rodriguez said: "Absolutely gutted and in disbelief at the situation I find myself in.
"I 100% deny the false allegation and will take the correct legal advice to prove my innocence."
Gary Mellor, Rodriguez's agent, told Sky Sports News: "These allegations are totally untrue, there's no supporting evidence, and it's severely damaging to someone of impeccable character.
"Someone needs to seriously look at these types of charges and allegations that can be levelled at a professional footballer, on the basis of one person's word.
"This has devastated Jay and his family. Serious and disgusting allegations of this sort can taint someone's life forever, even if he is later cleared of the charges. They will remain on internet searches forever.
"We are determined to fight the allegations; we will challenge the FA over the charge at the independent tribunal, and Jay is taking legal advice to ensure his name is cleared.
"In the meantime, he is determined to play against Chelsea on Monday, because he will not allow false allegations of this sort to disrupt his fight to keep West Brom in Premier League."
West Brom also backed the player saying they 'remain fully supportive' of Rodriguez.
He has until next Friday to respond to the FA charge.
