FA look at van Nistelrooy tackle

The Football Association will study video evidence of Ruud van Nistelrooy’s challenge on Arsenal full-back Ashley Cole at Old Trafford yesterday before deciding whether to charge the Manchester United striker.

Van Nistelrooy could be hit by a three-match ban if the FA opt to charge him over the tackle, missed by referee Mike Riley, whose performance was slated by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

Soho Square officials are in for a busy time dealing with the aftermath of yesterday’s crunch encounter, which United won 2-0 to end Arsenal’s magnificent 49-game unbeaten record in the league.

They will also investigate Wenger’s post-game criticism of Riley and van Nistelrooy.

In addition, they will also seek to find out how Alex Ferguson ended up having soup thrown at him in the tunnel after the match.