Football: Francis facing 'assault' claims

Police are investigating an allegation of common assault made against Crystal Palace manager Trevor Francis, it was reported today.

Francis is accused of becoming involved in an incident with Alex Kolinko, his substitute goalkeeper.

The former Birmingham manager is alleged to have committed the offence during Tuesday's 1-1 draw between Palace and Bradford at Selhurst Park, The Express reported.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "We are investigating an allegation of common assault in connection with an incident at Crystal Palace's ground on Tuesday."

He explained police would not be formally interviewing anyone but acting as "mediators" between the two sides in an attempt to resolve the issue.

Palace chairman Simon Jordan yesterday described the incident as a "storm in a teacup".