West Bromwich Albion's Nicolas Anelka denies FA charge

The English FA has confirmed that West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka has denied a misconduct charge brought against him.

The Frenchman's controversial 'quenelle' gesture made during goal celebration against West Ham United at Upton Park last month is alleged to have anti-semitic connotations.

"Nicolas Anelka has today (Thursday) replied to a charge in relation to an incident that occurred during the West Ham United versus West Bromwich Albion fixture at the Boleyn Ground on December 28, 2013," read a statement on the FA's official website.

"Anelka, the West Bromwich Albion player, has denied the charge and requested a personal hearing."

Anelka has denied that his gesture was anti-semitic in nature, claiming that he made the salute in support of his friend and French comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala.