Former Saints boss hits headlines

Former Llansantffraid player and manager Tony Henry has been suspended from his role as Director of Player Recruitment at West Ham.

Henry was sacked as Llansantffraid’s League of Wales side manager by Mike Harris. His suspension follows accusations of racism and unlawful discrimination.

Henry, who joined the London club in 2014, is alleged to have told agents in an e-mail the Hammers no longer wanted to sign any African players in the transfer window and is alleged to have explained his decision to limit the number of players of African descent because "they have a bad attitude" and "cause mayhem" when they are not selected.

Newspaper reports suggest Henry stands by his remarks. "It’s nothing racist at all. It’s just sometimes they can have a bad attitude," he allegedly said.

"We had problems with Sakho, with Diafra Sakho. We find that when they are not in the team they cause mayhem. It’s nothing against the African race at all.

"I mean, look, there are top African players. There’s not a problem with them. It’s just sometimes they cause a lot of problems when they are not playing, as we had with Diafra. He’s left, so great. It’s nothing personal at all."

In a statement today, West Ham said: “The club can confirm Tony Henry  has been suspended pending a full and thorough investigation. West Ham United will not tolerate any type of discrimination and has, therefore, acted swiftly due to the serious nature of these claims.

“The West Ham United family is an inclusive one where, regardless of gender, age, ability, race, religion or sexual orientation, everybody feels welcome and included.  The club will make no further comment until the investigation has been concluded.”

Henry, 60, is vastly experienced in the area of player recruitment, previously working with West Ham manager David Moyes at Everton. He was also responsible for scouting at Chelsea and Sunderland before joining West Ham four years ago.

He played for Manchester City, Stoke, Oldham, Bolton and Shrewsbury before joining Llansantffraid, later becoming manager. He was famously sacked by Mike Harris at the village club while dressed in just a towel after taking a shower following a game in the village to be replaced by Andy Cale.