Source: Daily_Mail
Victor Obinna keen on West Ham stay
[LNB]Victor Obinna is still open to a permanent West Ham move despite allegations of racism towards his family at Upton Park. [LNB]On the same day as manager Avram Grant was handed a two-game touchline ban, the Hammers launched an investigation into claims the families of Obinna and Frederic Piquionne were abused by a small group of supporters during the 4-2 home defeat against Manchester United on Saturday. [LNB] United we stand: Obinna is open to a permanent move despite being the subject of alleged racist taunts [LNB]But in a confusing twist, both Obinna and Piquionne have denied their families were targets of racial slurs - despite the club probe.[LNB]No knowledge: Piquionne's agent claims 'nothing happened' to the striker's family [LNB]Grant is keen to keep Inter Milan striker Obinna - who is on a season-long loan at Upton Park - beyond theend of the season and the allegations could have thwarted the Israeli'shopes of signing the Nigeria star. [LNB]But Obinna's representative, Michael Coker, told Sportsmail on Monday night: 'We have no idea where these allegations have come from. [LNB]'I have spoken to Victor and as far as we know nothing was said to his family. 'Even if it was true, Victor is a professional and an incident like this would have no bearing on whether he decides to join West Ham.' [LNB]Similarly, Piquionne's agent StephaneCourbis said: 'I can't explain where this has come from. 'Freddie has no knowledge of it - nothing happened to his family.' [LNB]However, Sportsmailunderstands there was an incident involving racist remarks during Saturday's game and the club are continuing their investigation despite Obinna's and Piquionne's denial. [LNB]Co-ownerDavid Gold said: 'We will be monitoring CCTV, interviewing stewards andtaking strong action against offenders if these allegations are proved to be correct.' [LNB]Meanwhile,Grant has been hit with a two-game touchline ban and fined ?6,000 for comments made about referee Mike Jones after West Ham's FA Cup defeat toStoke on March 13. [LNB]Theban starts with immediate effect and means he will miss the vital Barclays Premier League clashes at Bolton this weekend and at home to Aston Villa the following week. [LNB] Sullivan 'appalled' by fans as Hammers launch probe over racist abuse claimsWest Ham could sign Obinna on a free after Inter fail to extend his contractWest Ham United FC news, features and opinion Explore more:People: David Gold Places: Nigeria
