Nit-writ

Charlton plc chairman Richard Murray has dismissed Simon Jordan's legal action against Iain Dowie as sour grapes.

The Crystal Palace chairman organised for a writ to be served during the press conference at The Valley to unveil Dowie as the new Addicks head coach on Tuesday morning.

Jordan claims the former Eagles boss misrepresented his reasons for leaving Selhurst Park on May 22nd, despite agreeing to waive Dowie's contract.

But a surprised Murray, who had earlier insisted to journalists there was no ill feeling between the two clubs as far as he was concerned, believes he is just bitter about losing an excellent manager.

Richard Murray and Iain Dowie take part in the press conference

"I didn't know what was going on - suddenly this guy came running in waving a piece of paper," said Richard. "It was amazing.

"Simon knows my number and he knows Iain's number - why can't he just pick up the phone?

"He does seem to do all his communication in bizarre ways, such as Sunday newspapers.

"If he's got a gripe with me let's just hope he's man enough to pick up the phone and talk to me.

"He does everything through the press. I think he's called me all sorts of names but I never respond, that's not my style. We just get on with winning games here at Charlton. If Simon wants to ring me about compensation he can.

"What he's got against Charlton Athletic I have no idea, apart from the fact his club got relegated at The Valley a couple of seasons ago."

The chairman added: "To my knowledge Iain had signed a compromise agreement - an agreement to waive the contract - but I don't think it had anything to do with moving house or his family.

"Iain's with us now and I'm going to back him to the hilt. I know he's got integrity and that's all that counts.

"Simon's probably just a bit bitter that he's lost a excellent manager."

Murray also confirmed that the new Charlton boss will be settling within close proximity to The Valley.