1:16PM BST 08 Oct 2012
Van Persie appeared to be facing a charge, which could have led to a three-match suspension, after television footage highlighted Cabaye being hit by the Dutch forward’s left arm during United’s 3-0 victory on Tyneside.
But after reviewing the incident earlier today, match referee Webb told the FA that Van Persie’s challenge was not violent conduct and therefore not worthy of a red card.
Van Persie, who had already been booked by Webb prior to the second-half incident with Cabaye, was substituted moments after the clash by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Confirmation that the £22m forward will not face disciplinary action will be welcomed by United, with the player now free to play against his former club, Arsenal, at Old Trafford next month.
Similarly, Liverpool forward Luis Suarez will not face FA action after calls by Stoke manager Tony Pulis for the Uruguayan to be charged with diving during Sunday’s 0-0 draw between the two clubs at Anfield.
The FA does not currently take retrospective action against players accused of simulation and, with the match referee choosing not to take action during the game, no further action will be taken against Suarez.
