Montgomery took the 100m world record in 2002

Marion Jones and Tim Montgomery have been accused of tarnishing the image of athletics by linking up with the former coach of disgraced sprinter Ben Johnson.

The International Association of Athletics Federations has asked Jones and Montgomery, who are linked romantically, for an explanation over their choice of Charlie Francis as coach.

Jones is the triple Olympic 100m gold medallist, while Montgomery is the 100m world record holder.

But their association with Francis - Johnson's coach when the Canadian tested positive for steroids in 1988 - could be seen as damaging to athletics.

"This is about the reputation and image of the sport," IAAF general secretary Istvan Gyulai said on Wednesday.

"This is raising so many eyebrows and causing so much public debate and interest. We believe it is our duty to get involved.

"Marion and Tim are idols to many millions of people around the world.

"The fans deserve some clarification, some explanation. Marion and Tim are high-earning athletes who should feel responsibility for the well-being of the sport."

Why change a coach after so much success? - it's difficult to understand IAAF general secretary Istvan Gyulai

Johnson was stripped of his gold medal after winning the 100m at the 1988 Olympics.

Francis was subsequently banned for life from working with members of Canada's national team in 1989, but is allowed to work with other athletes.

Gyulai said an IAAF committee would meet on Friday to consider what action to take, including the possibility of sending an envoy to Toronto to speak with the runners.

IAAF president Lamine Diack said on Tuesday that he would try to arrange a meeting with Jones to dissuade her from associating with Francis.

"It is a difficult situation for us because I like this lady very much," Diack told The Times newspaper.

"It does not mean that Marion Jones is going to take doping to improve. I don't expect that, she is a nice girl.

"But it's not very good for her image and for the image of our sport."