Source: Daily_Mail
Victor Obinna keen on West Ham stay
Victor Obinna is still open to a permanent West Ham move despite allegations of racism towards his family at Upton Park. 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. United we stand: Obinna is open to a permanent move despite being the subject of alleged racist taunts But in a confusing twist, both Obinna and Piquionne have denied their families were targets of racial slurs - despite the club probe.No knowledge: Piquionne's agent claims 'nothing happened' to the striker's family 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. But Obinna's representative, Michael Coker, told Sportsmail on Monday night: 'We have no idea where these allegations have come from. '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.' 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.' 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. Co-ownerDavid Gold said: 'We will be monitoring CCTV, interviewing stewards andtaking strong action against offenders if these allegations are proved to be correct.' 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. 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. 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