West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka given five-match ban

West Bromwich Albion forward Nicolas Anelka has been handed a five-match ban and fined £80,000 for his 'quenelle' gesture.

A three-man independent regulatory commission has ruled that Anelka committed racially-aggravated misconduct in performing the gesture during a goal celebration in the Baggies' draw at West Ham United on December 28.

The Frenchman had denied the charge and requested a personal hearing.

A statement on the FA's official website read: "An Independent Regulatory Commission has found an aggravated breach of FA Rule E3 against Nicolas Anelka proven and has issued a five-match suspension and a fine of £80,000, pending appeal."

Anelka has also been ordered to complete a compulsory education course.