Anelka accused by French Minister in row over ‘anti Semitic’ gesture
LONDON/PARIS: French Sports Minister Valerie Fourneyron has accused Nicolas Anelka of a “disgusting anti-Semitic” goal celebration during West Bromwich Albion’s 3-3 Premier League draw at West Ham.
The French government is already trying to ban comedian Dieudonne M’bala M’bala’s shows over his use of the gesture.
Albion said it was not an anti-Semitic act but Fourneyron criticised Anelka, 34, who is also being investigated by the FA.
Joe Cole’s opening goal for West Ham was cancelled out by an Anelka double in the striker’s first match in more than two months. Two goals in two minutes from half-time substitute Modibo Maiga and skipper Kevin Nolan put West Ham back in front but Saido Berahino levelled.
Later Fourneyron wrote : “Anelka’s gesture is a shocking provocation, disgusting. There’s no place for anti-Semitism on the football field.”
But Anelka defended his action, saying: “This gesture was a special dedication to my friend Dieudonne.”
Albion caretaker manager Keith Downing said Anelka was “totally surprised” by the furore, despite the French government announcing on Friday that it was studying legal options to ban performances by Dieudonne.
“It has got nothing to do with what is being said,” Downing said. “It is absolute rubbish.”
Threats
Jewish groups had complained to French president Francois Hollande about Dieudonne’s trademark quenelle, which they described as a “Nazi salute in reverse”. They linked it to increasing anti-Semitic remarks and acts in France.
In return Dieudonne has threatened to sue the groups for calling it a Nazi salute. He calls it “la quenelle” – a word for a fish dumpling – and says it stands for his anti-Zionist and anti-establishment views, rather than anti-Semitism.
Anti-discrimination body Kick It Out said it was in contact with partners in England and France over the Anelka incident and offered support to the Football Association in its inquiries.
Former France international Anelka scored his first two goals for the club in Saturday’s draw with the Hammers. He had not played since the 4-1 defeat by former club Liverpool on 26 October.
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