Manchester City chief Garry Cook in cancer email storm

Cook is alleged to have made comments about Nedum Onuoha's cancer-stricken mum (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester City chief executive Garry Cook is at the centre of more unwanted controversy after an e-mail, appearing to be sent by him, went to Nedum Onuoha's cancer-stricken mum by mistake.

City declined to comment on the story but it is understood Dr Anthonia Onuoha did receive the e-mail and has asked the Football Association to act.

It is thought the e-mail which made light of Dr Onuoha's cancer was intended for Blues director of football Brian Marwood.

It is suggested that Cook was on holiday at the time the e-mail was sent and believes his account has been hacked into.

"When I opened up my e-mails and saw the message, it was the worst day of my life. Even worse than being diagnosed with cancer," Dr Onuoha told The Sun.

"I don't understand how anyone could behave like that. I am critically ill."

Cook attracted a series of negative headlines early in his tenure.

At one stage he described subsequently discredited former City owner Thaksin Shinawatra as "a great guy to play golf with".

He was also associated with a failed attempt to sign Kaka, accusing the Brazilian of "bottling it".

Cook also boasted that City would win a 2010 Carling Cup semi-final against Manchester United, only for them subsequently to lose.

However, Cook is well liked by the majority of Blues staff, who feel the former Nike executive has never been given the credit deserved for the huge amount of good work he has done for the Blues in their ascent to English football's top table.