Duo escape FA charges

Craig Bellamy and Gary Neville have received warnings from the Football Association following separate incidents in the Manchester derby but they will not face charges.

The FA launched an investigation on Monday after Bellamy pushed his hand into the face of a supporter who had invaded the Old Trafford pitch.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes defended his striker after the altercation and the FA have now decided not to take action.

Gary Neville of Manchester United, a non-playing substitute in the game, has also escaped punishment after celebrating his side's winner by running down the touchline towards the City fans.

Both players have been told to behave in future but they will not be charged with improper conduct - with referee Martin Atkinson telling FA officials that he would not have sent off Bellamy had he seen the incident.

A statement released by the FA said: "The FA has today warned both Manchester City's Craig Bellamy and Manchester United's Gary Neville following separate incidents in Sunday's fixture at Old Trafford.

"In relation to Craig Bellamy the match referee has confirmed that he would not have sent the player off had he seen the incident with the fan at the time.

"Craig Bellamy will be contacted by the FA and warned as to his future conduct.

"The FA would repeat its previous advice that players should not become involved with or approach fans in such circumstances.

"The FA would also take this opportunity to remind fans, managers and players of their joint responsibility towards the game and strongly condemns any pitch invasions by fans.

"Gary Neville has been reminded of his responsibilities following his actions after Manchester United's final goal deep into injury time."

United have also avoided any disciplinary action after City substitute Javier

Garrido was struck on the head by a coin as he walked down the tunnel at half-time.

The statement added: "The FA has also contacted Manchester United regarding a coin-throwing incident during the same fixture.

"The FA fully expects the club to use all available means to identify and deal with the culprit appropriately and, along with the fan who entered the field of play, look to issue bans on attending future matches."