West Bromwich Albion player Nicolas Anelka has reportedly agreed not to perform his controversial 'quenelle' goal celebration after the club admitted that it has offence 'in some quarters'.
The French striker provoked widespread criticism over the gesture during the 3-3 draw with West Ham - described by some as reverse Nazi salute - but has insisted it had no anti-Semitic connotations
According to Sky News, West Brom issued a statement saying that it has asked Anelka to refrain from doing the celebration again, adding that the player has immediately agreed to adhere to this request.
Although West Brom caretaker manager Keith Downing said that he might pick the striker for the match against Newcastle on Wednesday, he however, admitted that the controversy - which is still being investigated by the FA - has become a distraction.
The 'quenelle' salute was brought to prominence in Anelka's homeland by French comedian Dieudonne M'Bala M'Bala, who has been prosecuted for anti-Semitism, the report added.