Fan's taunt at dinner was ‘racist’ abuse

Posted Wednesday, May 18, 2011 by thesun.co.uk

DEMBA BA insists he was the victim of a racist onslaught during a shameful brawl at West Ham's gala dinner.

Police rushed to London's swanky Grosvenor Hotel when fighting broke out at Monday's end-of-season bash to raise funds for Hammers' academy.

Witnesses told The Sun the brawl was triggered when Ba refused to sign an autograph for a fan, snapping: "I'm too tired."

But Ba last night denied that, claiming: "I did give him his autograph, he came looking for confrontation.

"This guy asked how I was feeling so I just said I was tired from the game on Sunday and that it was a tough game.

"Then he just replied 'Oh, we're tired watching you play every weekend'.

"Then the guy started screaming at me like crazy.

"I didn't understand everything he said but the people next to me said he was saying racist things."

Senegal striker Ba, 25, did not make a formal complaint and insists he wants the matter dropped.

Hammers have been criticised for holding the dinner just 24 hours after they were relegated following a 3-2 defeat at Wigan and boss Avram Grant was sacked.

But a club spokesman said: "It wasn't a 'celebration' it was a chance for the fans to meet players and for them to be accountable to the supporters.

"They understood that and all who could were happy to attend.

"The actions of one person should not overshadow it."

Ba's team-mates were forced to step in when things got ugly with the irate punter at the £275-a-head do.

Ba added: "Some players told me to walk away and tried to calm this guy but he started smashing some tables and glasses.

"He started insulting me. So I got up to show I'm not impressed at all by him but this guy was a bit drunk.

"Danny Gabbidon tried to talk to the guy but he started insulting Gabbidon as well.

"I never refuse to sign autograph to the fans."

Gus Poyet has followed Steve McClaren by ruling himself out of the running to replace Grant as West Ham boss.

The Brighton manager said: "No chance. I can promise I will never apply for a job during my time at another club - especially at a club where I'm so happy."