Top 5 controversial gestures by footballers

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West Bromwich Albion striker Nicolas Anelka’s goal celebration has ruffled many feathers

West Brom striker Nicolas Anelka kicked up a storm when people accused the Frenchman of being anti-semitic after he celebrated his goals against West Ham United in a controversial manner. The 34-year-old scored a brace in the Baggies’s 3-3 draw against West Ham United but his brilliance was shadowed by his unusual celebration.

The celebration drew a lot of flak because it seemed that the striker was doing a reverse Nazi salute. The former Chelsea man stated that he was only supporting his comedian friend Dieudonne but could face a 5-game ban for his actions.

Here is a list of previous gestures made by footballers that made headlines.

5. Luis Suarez vs Fulham

Suarez has always made headlines for his actions

The prolific forward is no stranger to controversy and has been in the headlines numerous times for his unprofessional behavior. The striker was pictured giving the finger to Fulham fans on 7th December 2011 after being constantly jeered by them. The 26-year-old was accused of cheating and diving in the match against the Cottagers and was booed every-time he touched the ball. Suarez was already under fire as he was accused of racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra that year and the finger gesture only made matters worse for the Uruguayan.