Francis punched me - Kolinko

The incident occurred during a 1-1 draw with Bradford with Francis allegedly hitting out at Kolinko for laughing when their opponents scored.

"I was not laughing in the dugout. The manager punched me on the nose. I have not been given an explanation why he did it. My nose is very sore and bruised," said Kolinko. 

The player's agent, Phil Graham, added: "Due to the amount of speculation concerning an incident during the game against Bradford on Tuesday Alex feels he has no alternative but to put the record straight.

"Reports claimed he was laughing when Bradford scored and that he got a clip around the ear from Francis.

"Alex is surprised and disappointed that he has not received an official apology from the manager and is very upset that he is being portrayed as an uncaring professional.

"He did not report the incident to the police. An on-duty policeman next to the dugout saw what happened and the policeman told Alex he would be writing a report.

"The fourth official also saw the incident clearly and that is why the manager was sent to the stand."

Police and the FA are investigating the incident with Palace standing by Francis.