Sacked West Brom boss Alan Pardew is set to testify in Jay Rodriguez's defence this week as the striker fights a racism charge.

The Mirror says Pardew's only win was over Brighton but even that 2-0 victory, on January 13, was marred by claims striker Rodriguez aimed racist abuse at the visitors' defender Gaetan Bong.

Rodriguez, who has scored 10 goals this term, has always strenuously denied the allegation and was granted an extension to appeal.

His evidence includes an expert lip-reader as he bids to prove his innocence and avoid the minimum five-match ban.

The hearing, chaired by a three-man independent panel, is set to take place this week and Rodriguez's consistent stance will be boosted by the support of then-boss Pardew.