Jay Rodriguez to hire lip reader to fight racial abuse claims by Brighton ace Gaetan Bong
WEST BROM striker Jay Rodriguez has hired a lip reader and a top QC in a bid to clear his name after being accused of racism.
The 28-year-old is alleged to have said "you're black and you stink" to Brighton's Gaetan Bong during the Baggies' clash with the Seagulls on January 13.
Rodriguez categorically denies claims that he said that to the Cameroon international and West Brom have backed their £12million man.
The FA charged the former Southampton striker a week ago, who is reportedly stunned by developments, according to the .
He has requested a personal hearing to clear his name and avoid a potential five-match ban.
A statement said: "It is alleged he used abusive and/or insulting words which included a reference to ethnic origin and/or colour and/or race."
Bong, 29, was signed by Brighton manager Chris Hughton back in 2015, before the club went on to win promotion to the Premier League last season.
The furore could not have come at a worse time for Rodriguez, who could face a lengthy suspension if he is found guilty by the FA.
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He has netted some important goals for the Baggies this season, including during their stunning 3-2 FA Cup win over Liverpool, where he netted two at Anfield.
After some nightmare seasons out while at Southampton with knee problems, Rodriguez had finally started to re-establish himself as a top English striker and put himself in the frame for international duty.
With the World Cup on the horizon he will want to clear his name and put himself in Gareth Southgate's plans and win his first cap since 2013.