FA to investigate Old Trafford fracas

The FA have launched an investigation into the incidents at Old Trafford, and officials will be studying video evidence before bringing any charges against either clubs or players.

The FA have launched an investigation into incidents during yesterday's between Manchester United and Arsenal.

Officials will be studying video evidence before bringing any charges against either clubs or players.

Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Dutchman jumped out of the way after Vieira fell and was accused of getting the French midfielder sent off.

When he missed an injury-time penalty he was taunted, and appeared to be struck on the head, punched and pushed by a posse of Gunners players as the match ended in acrimony.

FA head of media Adrian Bevington told the FA’s website, www.theFA.com: “Following yesterday’s Premiership fixture between Manchester United and Arsenal, the FA can confirm it has received the report from referee Steve Bennett, as well as video tapes of the match.

“As a result, the FA will now review the video tapes in detail and as a matter of urgency. The FA have also requested further videos of the various incidents from different camera angles.

“The FA will be looking at various aspects of player behaviour during the match and in the scenes following the final whistle.

“The FA will make a further statement as soon as this process is complete.”