Nicolas Anelka: No plans to leave West Bromwich Albion for Lazio or anyone else

London: Nicolas Anelka has turned down an offer to join Lazio and will play for West Bromwich Albion against Aston Villa on Wednesday despite an FA charge for his controversial ‘quenelle’ gesture.

The French striker took to Twitter yesterday to express his determination to stay in England and claim his innocence over a goal celebration at West Ham last month.

Anelka said: “Thanks to Lazio and all the other clubs who wanted to sign me these last few days. See you this summer if I decide to continue. But the question is why should I leave my club and England?

“I’m happy here and I did nothing wrong, so now it’s time to stay focused on my football with my club and I will try my best on the pitch like I always do.”

Anelka is contesting the FA charge and his case will be heard at the end of February. If found guilty he will receive a minimum five-game ban.

West Bromwich’s shirt sponsor Zoopla have already announced they will end their association with the club at the end of this season over the decision to keep playing Anelka, who started the 1-1 draw with Everton eight days ago.

Head coach Pepe Mel insisted the striker was “99 per cent” certain to feature at Villa Park, denying he would not be in the right frame of mind to play.

“The only thing he wants to do is help the team beat Aston Villa,” Mel said. “He showed against Everton he’s got absolutely no problem.

“The most important thing for me as head coach is his performance on the pitch.”