Aston Villa striker Dion Dublin is set to escape police action over his head-butt against midfielder Robbie Savage during the 'second city' derby with Birmingham.
Dublin was sent off for violent conduct after his attack on Savage five minutes into the second half of an ill-tempered affair at Villa Park.
There has been speculation that the 33-year-old player could be made an example of and charged by police after a night of violence surrounding the game which saw 40 fans arrested.
But a police spokesman said a possible prosecution would only result if a "specific complaint" was made - and sources close to Savage indicated that he was ready to let the matter drop.
That will come as a relief to one-time England forward Dublin who is already facing an automatic three-match Football Association ban for his actions.
A West Midlands Police spokesman confirmed: "The police would not normally get involved in an incident occurring on the pitch unless a specific complaint is made."
Dublin has already issued a public apology for his actions which followed on from a late tackle on Savage who appeared to respond with some comments before the head-butt.
The Villa player admitted to being "ashamed" and recognised he had let down his team-mates and club manager Graham Taylor.
Savage has been told to make no comment by Blues manager Steve Bruce although the two are due to meet on Thursday morning, with a statement possibly being issued afterwards.
There was further good news for Dublin with the FA unlikely to take any further action against him and deeming the three match ban sufficient punishment.
Soho Square are understood to be satisfied that the incident was out of character, particularly given Dublin's good disciplinary record in a 15 year career.