• Wednesday’s game first since striker charged over quenelle
• Manager Pepe Mel says chances of his playing are 99%

Pepe Mel has indicated that he will select Nicolas Anelka for West Bromwich Albion’s game at Aston Villa on Wednesday, the club’s first since the striker was charged by the Football Association over his controversial quenelle goal celebration. Anelka, who has denied the charge and requested a personal hearing, faces a minimum five-match ban if found guilty of making an abusive, indecent, insulting or improper gesture.

The former France international said on Monday that he wants to see out the season with Albion, despite stating that Lazio are among clubs keen to sign him this month. He started West Brom’s most recent match, at home to Everton, the night before his FA charge, and Mel has all but confirmed that Anelka will also begin the Premier League game against Villa.

“He has a 99% chance, yes,” the head coach said. “I have already spoken with Anelka and the only thing he wants to do is help the team beat Aston Villa. I think he showed against Everton that he has absolutely no problem. The most important thing for me as the head coach is his performance on the pitch.

“Stéphane Sessègnon [who is injured] is the only player who is not available – everyone else is available and Anelka, for me, played well against Everton.”

West Brom’s shirt sponsor, Zoopla, is ending its association with the club in light of Anelka’s gesture, which is widely regarded as antisemitic. Lord Ouseley, the chairman of the anti-discrimination group Kick It Out, has criticised Albion over their handling of the affair.

Mel said: “I think the club must be respectful towards the decision taken by the FA and look towards the best for Nicolas Anelka and for the club.”

Anelka has made it clear that he does not want to leave Albion this month. He wrote on Twitter: “Thanks to Lazio & all the others clubs who wanted to sign me this last days. See you this summer if I decide to continue…

“But the question is why should I leave my club & England? I’m happy here & I did nothing wrong… So now it’s time to stay focus on my football with my club & I will try my best on the pitch like I always do!”

Anelka joined West Brom on a one-year deal, with a further year’s option in the club’s favour, last summer.

• Nicolas Anelka
• West Bromwich Albion
• Aston Villa
• Race issues
• The FA

theguardian.com