MORRISON TAKES PALACE LOAN

Palace are looking to strengthen their defence following reports of a violent bust-up between chairman Simon Jordan and veteran defender Andy Linighan on a team-building holiday to Spain.

It is claimed that Linighan, who was set for a coaching role at Selhurst Park, will now be released following the incident, and manager Alan Smith has moved quickly to snap up the former City captain - who led the side to promotion from Division Two - on loan.

Morrison has not appeared for City this season so far, spending a month on loan at Blackpool recently, and has been allowed to keep his fitness up with a spell at Palace.

He has, though, told City manager Joe Royle that he is determined to win back his place in the Maine Road side, a fact which has encouraged the Citizens' boss.

"He is a great leader on the pitch," said Royle. "He tells me he is waiting for his chance and that when it comes he will be ready to take it so we will have to wait and see.

"There is no question that he possesses Premiership ability. It is all a matter of getting him as fit as he possibly can be."