Albion defender Gaetan Bong says Jay Rodriguez has apologised after their racism row.

And he has urged people not to be dissuaded from standing up for themselves in similar circumstances.

An independent commission found the case against Jay Rodriguez not proven after the West Brom striker was charged by the FA.

Bong accused him of saying "You're black and you stink" during an incident in the Premier League match between the teams at the Hawthorns in January.

Rodriguez, who covered his mouth with his hand, denied the charge, claiming he used the words "breath f...ing stinks".

Bong tweeted tonight: "I am very disappointed because the lack of evidence has not led to sanctions against such attitudes.

"But in spite of my disappointment, I encourage everyone, men and women, who may also be subjected to a similar experience, to stand up and denounce such acts, even if the chances of obtaining sanctions are likely to be very small.

"Despite the lack of evidence I am certain of what I heard on the field."

Bong thanked Albion, the FA and everyone that supported him.

He added: "Mr Rodriguez has apologized and this is already positive."

That prompted a response from the legal team for Rodriguez.

They said: "At the hearing Jay apologised to Mr Bong for any offence caused by the gesture during the game - this was accepted by Mr Bong.

"It is important to clarify that Jay did not apologise for making any racist comments as Jay never said anything racist."