FA seeks ref's view over Barton horror challenge

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Atkinson did not award a foul when Barton went into the tackle with his studs high on the Sunderland player, with both men squaring up afterwards.

It is understood there was no mention of the incident in the referee's report, and the FA will seek clarification over whether Atkinson did indeed witness the clash at the time as well as reviewing television evidence.

Under FIFA guidelines, a retrospective charge for violent conduct can only be laid down in instances where the match official does not notice the incident at all.

Should disciplinary proceedings eventually be forthcoming, Barton - who joined Newcastle from Manchester City during the summer - could be facing up to a three-match ban.