LONDON (AP):

A senior member of Crystal Palace's coaching staff quit yesterday after becoming embroiled in a text-message controversy that also involves former Cardiff manager Malky Mackay and is the subject of an English Football Association investigation.

A dossier has been sent by Cardiff to the FA, outlining allegations that a string of inappropriate text messages were sent between Iain Moody and Mackay while they were employed by the Welsh club. Sections of the British media reported that the messages were of a racist, sexist and anti-gay nature.

Hours after the governing body confirmed it was "investigating the matter", Palace accepted the resignation of Moody, who held the position of sporting director, with immediate effect, "in light of the events".

In a statement released by the League Managers Association, Mackay apologised for sending a "couple of one-line texts that were, with the benefit of hindsight, very regrettable and disrespectful of other cultures". The LMA said Mackay has denied sending any sexist or anti-gay messages.

The departure of Moody plunged Palace further into turmoil, with the Premier League club currently seeking a new manager after Tony Pulis stepped down from the role last week - two days before the start of the new season.

Mackay was one of the favourites to replace Pulis, but Palace's interest has cooled because of the controversy.

"Malky finds it strange that these matters were only raised with the FA and in the media now - eight months after his employment ended (with Cardiff) and the day before he was reported as being offered the opportunity to become manager of Crystal Palace," the LMA said.

Cardiff was relegated from the Premier League at the end of last season. Pulis led Palace to safety after joining in November with the team last in the standings.