Essien was booked at the time by referee Rob Styles, during the match on Saturday 15 October.

The FA was unable to take further disciplinary action against Essien following communication from FIFA, which stated that in such cases the referee's decision is final and cannot be changed retrospectively.

FIFA also clarified that the up-grading or down-grading of cards was not permitted. This followed concerns expressed by FIFA following an incident involving Jermaine Jenas playing for Newcastle against Arsenal earlier in the season.