Nicolas Anelka was surprised by the furious reaction his 'quenelle' celebration received after scoring for West Bromwich Albion at the weekend, according to caretaker manager Keith Downing.

After netting his side's first of the 3-3 draw at West Ham United, the Frenchman performed the gesture, which is said to be an inverted Nazi salute, used by Anelka's friend and controversial comedian Dieudonne M'bala M'bala.

"He was kind of surprised by the reaction that's happened but we've stated already it won't happen again," Downing told the press after the club released a statement. "The reaction from it was obviously not favourable."

Albion host Newcastle United on New Year's Day.