Dowie leaves Palace

Iain Dowie has left Crystal Palace by mutual consent having failed to regain what they (but not many others) would regard as their rightful place in the Premiership. He is reported to have had a falling out with Palace chairman Simon Jordan.

Dowie's destination is unclear. There is some support among the Addickted for him coming to The Valley, but not that much. Many regard Palace's play this season as uninspiring with too much reliance on getting the ball to Andy Johnson. There are also questions about how good a motivator Dowie is.

Dowie is said to be planning to speak to Charlton about their managerial vacancy, although that does not fit with the line about returning north to be with the family. Jordan, who has expressed his wish to kick Richard Murray in the backside, not surprisingly recommends against it, and says: 'I would be disappointed if Iain were to turn up at Charlton. He understands my view. I have made this situation far less acrimonious than it could have been.'

He could go to Preston if Billy Davies comes to Charlton, but the Tractors have also expressed interest. At least he would feel at home in a club which have a track record of just failing to get out of the Championship.