Albion defender Gaetan Bong has the backing of manager Chris Hughton in his 'racist' row with West Brom's Jay Rodriguez.

The FA has launched an investigation into an allegation made by Bong against Rodriguez during Saturday's Premier League match at the Hawthorns.

The pair clashed in the 56th minute of the 2-0 defeat for the Seagulls. Replays showed Rodriguez pinching his own nose and Bong reacting angrily.

The former Cameroon international full-back immediately protested to referee Martin Atkinson, who spoke to both players before passing on details of the allegation to fourth official Tony Harrington.

According to the Sunday Times Bong alleges Rodriguez used the words "you're black and you stink". 

Hughton, speaking after the match, did not confirm the nature of the complaint but told The Argus: "I know the type of character Gaetan is, most definitely.

"Of course I have spoken to the player and what has happened has been done exactly how it should be done. It was reported to the referee straight away from Bong.

"I wasn't sure at the time but the referee came over to the fourth official, wrote down what the allegations were.

"I have seen the referee afterwards, as has Gaetan Bong, and that is the correct procedure and it will go through to the FA to deal with.

"All I can say there is an allegation that has been made and it has been through the correct protocol."