FA investigating reports of racism around West Ham head of recruitment

Joe Wright

FA investigating reports of racism around West Ham head of recruitment image

The Football Association (FA) has confirmed it is investigating reports surrounding West Ham's head of recruitment and his alleged discriminatory treatment of African players.

On Wednesday, the Daily Mail claimed to have seen emails from Tony Henry speaking disparagingly about players from Africa, recalling difficulties the club had with Senegalese striker Diafra Sakho.

It was reported that Henry had said African players "cause mayhem" when not selected in the team.

West Ham announced on Thursday that Henry had been suspended pending an investigation, and the FA subsequently confirmed it was looking into the matter.

"The FA can confirm it is investigating reports concerning West Ham United. No further comment will be made at this time," read a brief statement.

Joe Wright

Joe Wright Photo

Joe is a Senior Editor at Sporting News. He was previously a sub editor and writer for Goal.com before spending six years as part of the Stats Perform editorial news service, covering major global sports including football, tennis, boxing, NBA, rugby union and athletics. Joe has reported live on some of the biggest games in football, including two UEFA Champions League finals, Euro 2016, the Confederations Cup 2017 and the 2018 World Cup final at the end of a month in Russia.