FA decides not to charge Ivanovic, but Chelsea & Everton were charged

The Football Association have opted not to charge Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic following his clash with James McCarthy during the Blues' 1-0 win over Everton on Wednesday.

Both clubs have, however, been charged with failing to control their players during the mass confrontation that occurred after Gareth Barry brought down Willian in the 87th minute of the Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge.
 

Barry received his second yellow card for the foul but Ivanovic's actions, in grabbing McCarthy around the neck and attempting to headbutt him, escaped sanction from the match officials.

The Serbia international later played a part in the build-up to Willian's 89th-minute deflected winner that preserved Chelsea's seven-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

The footage of the right-back's actions was referred by the FA to a three-man panel of former elite referees, who concluded it was not a red card offence.

After the match Jose Mourinho, who has in recent weeks complained of a "campaign" against his side, walked out on one TV interview and threatened to cut short his post-match press conference when questioned about Ivanovic's conduct.

Everton boss Roberto Martinez was more forthcoming with his assessment, telling BBC Sport: "Ivanovic's behaviour is wrong. He grabs McCarthy around his neck in a very forceful manner then puts his head against him. James doesn't react a single bit."

Chelsea and Everton have until 6pm on Tuesday February 17 to respond to the charge.