Toon Midfielder Is A Lucky Man!
Last updated : 13 November 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor
The Football Association have confirmed Barton will not be punished after referee Martin Atkinson decided to take no action over the studs-high tackle.
Obviously the way Roy Keane played down the incident has helped Barton's cause.
Barton: "There was no malice in it, nor was it premeditateds. If I caused him any injury, then I apologise.
"Things happen in the heat of a derby game.
"It was my third game back and I'm still a bit rusty. If I was fully match fit the situation would have been avoided."
An FA spokesman: "The Football Association can only take action in the case of incidents that are not seen by officials.
"Whilst it is clear that the officials did not see the full extent of the incident, they did see players coming together and to take any further action would be tantamount to re-refereeing the game and this would be contrary to the laws of the game."