FA chiefs demand to see e-mails at heart of West Ham racism storm - as misconduct charge looms
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The FA have insisted on viewing the explosive e-mails in which West Ham’s transfer chief claimed he did not want the club to sign any more African players.
The alleged comments were made by the Hammers' head of player recruitment, Tony Henry, who was suspended on Thursday. Under FA rules, the east London side could be charged with misconduct if they do not comply with the request to disclose the e-mails.
Henry is said to have told agents he wanted to restrict the signings of African players because ‘they have a bad attitude’ and ‘cause mayhem’ when they are not picked to play.
A number of the club’s African stars are fuming at Henry’s comments, and their Senegalese midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate took to social media on Thursday morning to post: “African and proud.”
(Image: Getty)
Other players are said to have sought answers from the club over the issue.
West Ham maintain they have a commitment to diversity and equality, and an established tradition of signing black players.
The club also insisted it has a significant black and African contingent within its senior and youth squads, as they confirmed the transfer of 20-year-old forward Oladapo Afolayan from National League club Solihull Moors.
(Image: West Ham United FC)
In a statement it said: “The club can confirm that director of player recruitment Tony Henry has been suspended pending a full and thorough investigation. West Ham United will not tolerate any type of discrimination and has, therefore, acted swiftly due to the serious nature of these claims.
“The West Ham United family is an inclusive one where, regardless of gender, age, ability, race, religion or sexual orientation, everybody feels welcome and included.
“The club will make no further comment until the investigation has been concluded."