Aston Villa are examining television pictures to establish if Gabriel Agbonlahor was racially abused by Newcastle’s Joey Barton on Monday.

It is alleged that Barton made an insulting reference to the Villa striker during a heated exchange, during which it is also alleged that Barton poked the Villa player in the face.

Although referee Steve Bennett failed to mention any incident - and the FA confirmed last night that nothing was included in his official report - Villa are reviewing the footage.

The complaint may depend on whether Agbonlahor wants to take the matter further.

Villa are aware of the storm it would cause if they demanded action without any firm evidence to support their case.

Then it could be the word of one player against another.

An FA spokesman said: ‘We are aware of the rumours and have had a number of calls on the subject. We take seriously any allegations of racist abuse and will act accordingly if we receive any official complaint from Villa.’