West Ham United have suspended director of recruitment Tony Henry following alleged comments he made about the club's policy on signing African players.
In a series of leaked emails published by the Daily Mail on Wednesday, Henry is alleged to have told an agent that the Hammers "don't want any more Africans" because "when they are not in the team they cause mayhem".
The Hammers initially said in response that they had launched a full investigation into the matter but have now issued a statement to confirm Henry's suspension with immediate effect.
"The club can confirm that director of player recruitment Tony Henry has been suspended pending a full and thorough investigation," it said. "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."
Among the players to have been allegedly singled out for criticism was Diafra Sakho, whom Henry claimed had caused "problems" at the club before being sold to Rennes earlier this week.
