Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson escaped FA action after his confrontation with referee Mike Dean during United’s 4-3 win at home to Newcastle United, while Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini and QPR boss Harry Redknapp are both being investigated for criticizing referees following their Boxing Day games.

Ferguson was angry that Dean overruled his assistant in awarding Newcastle’s second goal when the linesman had flagged for offside. At halftime, Ferguson approached Dean angrily as he made his way out for the second half before moving on to the linesman and fourth official.

Newcastle coach Alan Pardew thought Ferguson’s actions were worthy of a dismissal. "I think Mike Dean might feel slightly disappointed he didn't do something about it," Pardew said. “Apparently [Ferguson and Dean] had a cordial discussion. I've had a few of those myself and sometimes I've ended up in the stands as a result of that cordial discussion."