Mark Hughes is adamant Craig Bellamy did not create a confrontation with a Manchester United fan at Old Trafford on Sunday. The FA are still deciding whether to bring any action against Bellamy for what appeared to be a shove in the face of a supporter

The fan had invaded the pitch shortly after Michael Owen scored in stoppage time.

Although Hughes’ assistant Mark Bowen claimed Bellamy though he was about to be spat at, television replays show the Welshman advancing towards the melee and that the fan was being held by two stewards when Bellamy struck out.

If the FA decide such conduct warrants a charge of violent conduct, it could mean a three-game ban for a player who has been embroiled in so much disciplinary trouble before.

However, Hughes is not expecting that to happen and has defended Bellamy’s actions.

“All Craig has done is go over there and tell the guy to get off the pitch,” said Hughes. “Craig wasn’t privy to how much time was left to enable us to get back into the game.

“The guy made an aggressive move towards him and Craig wanted to get him off the pitch. Craig just put a defensive hand out to push him away.

“You can never be quite sure what is going to happen in those situations. We have not been contacted by the FA but if we are, that is what we will say.”