Derby boss Nigel Clough has denied that he deliberately kneed his Nottingham Forest counterpart Billy Davies in the leg during the stoppage-time melee at Pride Park. Davies claimed Clough struck him from behind as players scuffled on the touchline towards the end of Derby's 1-0 victory on Saturday.

"It was just a melee and arms and legs were flying. If anybody was accidentally caught, that is what happens," Clough told the Derby Telegraph.

"There were that many bodies in there, it was very difficult. We were just trying to get our players out of it. If in the melee contact was made, it was accidental."

Clough offered to shake hands with Davies after the game but was snubbed by the Scot.

"Was I disappointed by that? No, that is totally up to him," added the Derby boss.

"It is his prerogative whether or not he wants to shake hands."

Davies' solicitor has confirmed an official complaint has been made to the League Managers' Association regarding the Forest manager's claims.

The FA are investigating the incident and are studying the video evidence and the referee's report.