Dowie new Charlton boss

Palace chairman Simon Jordan sent a representative to serve the writ during a televised news conference at Charlton's Valley stadium where Dowie was being unveiled.

Talking to Sky Sports from Spain, Jordan accused Dowie of making a "fraudulent statement as to his reasons for leaving Palace". Dowie had told him he wanted to move back to the north of England to be with his family, Jordan said.

The 41-year-old Dowie decided to leave Palace, Charlton's local rivals, after they were beaten by Watford in the second division playoff semi-finals this month.

Despite the furore, Dowie said he was delighted to be taking over at the south London club.

"It's a huge honour. I feel that it's a club that matches my ambition, I feel that this is a fantastic opportunity for me," said Dowie, who stressed he had not intended to join Charlton when he left Palace.

"I wish (Palace) every success and I hope they get back in the Premier League."

It is the first managerial appointment at the club since Alan Curbishley was appointed as joint manager with Steve Gritt in 1991. Curbishley quit at the end of the season.

"I am particularly delighted to have secured the services of Iain," Charlton chairman Richard Murray told a televised news conference at the Valley.

"He is a very bright young coach with modern ideas and a real passion for the game, and I know he is very excited to be joining us."

Dowie gained a degree in aeronautical engineering before a playing career as a striker for Luton Town, Fulham and West Ham United. He took over at Palace in December 2003 and steered them into the top flight five months later.

Palace were relegated on the final day of the following season, although Dowie's reputation was enhanced by his work at Palace on a relatively low budget.

Charlton finished 13th in the Premier League last season following a dismal run after Christmas.