Manchester City have confirmed that they will be appealing against the decision earlier in the week to award Town manager Joe Royle £422,819.08 compensation relating to his sacking in 2001.

City spokesman Paul Tyrrell said: "We have received strong legal advice that there are solid grounds to appeal and we have a duty to do so on behalf of the club - and our supporters and shareholders.

"The judgment, we believe, is unjust in rewarding Mr Royle at a Premiership rate for a season which had already ended with the disappointment of relegation."

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls