MANCHESTER City last night demanded an apology from Crystal Palace chairman Ron Noades, who sparked a row between the clubs after he reappointed Steve Coppell as his manager.

Noades has infuriated Maine Road by his comments about Coppell, who left Manchester City after just six games in charge.

The Palace chairman said yesterday: "I don't think his departure was down to ill-health, I think that is just something Manchester City put out."

Manchester City have demanded an apology within 24 hours front Noades and issued a blunt warning.

"Manchester City totally refute any suggestion that Steve Coppell resigned for any reason other than on the grounds of ill-health," the club said in a statement.

"Manchester City require an apology from Mr Ron Noades within the next 24 hours for his statement. If this is not received, Mr Noades will have to face the legal consequences of what he has said."