Pardew avoids criminal action over headbutt

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew will not face police action over his headbutt on Hull's Irish midfielder David Meyler.

British police in Humberside confirmed they have received no complaint from Meyler or the Tigers and are happy to let the English FA deal with the matter.

Chief Inspector Rich Kirven said: "We have been working with the FA and the football club to progress the matter appropriately.

“Having reviewed the circumstances of the incident, it has been agreed that the matter will be dealt with by the FA rather than considering any criminal proceedings.

“There has been no complaint received from the player involved or Hull City Association Football Club at this time.

“Whilst we appreciate that some people may have found the behaviour displayed at the game on Saturday offensive, Humberside Police will not be taking any further action.”

Pardew was sent to the stands by match referee Kevin Friend after clashing with Meyler after the player had collided with him while chasing a ball into touch during Newcastle's 4-1 Premier League victory at the KC Stadium on Saturday.

The 52-year-old apologised after the game, but was later fined €120,000 by the Magpies and charged with improper conduct by the FA.

Pardew has until 6pm on Thursday to respond to the charge, which has been described in an FA statement as “non-standard”.

The statement said: “Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has been charged in relation to an incident in his side’s game against Hull City on March 1, 2014.

“It is alleged that in the 72nd minute of the fixture, Pardew was involved in an incident with a Hull City player that amounted to improper conduct.

“Due to the serious violent and/or aggressive nature of the reported behaviour, this case has been designated as non-standard.”