Stoke striker Ricardo Fuller will escape further punishment from the Football Association after his clash with his captain Andy Griffin on Sunday.

Fuller was sent off for fighting with Griffin during the 2-1 defeat at West Ham on Sunday.

The striker is likely to be fined the maximum two weeks' wages by manager Tony Pulis, who is due to meet the player on Monday to discuss the incident.

However, Fuller will just serve a statutory three-match ban for a red card issued for violent conduct as the FA do not plan to take further action.

Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross believes the incident could ultimately have a galvanising effect on the squad.

Shawcross admitted frustration was not an excuse for Fuller's actions but said the players should try to use the fall-out to their advantage.

"You cannot do that in football. It was unacceptable. If you do that to another player, you will be sent off," he said.

"He's a top lad and his frustration got the better of him.

"But every team bounces back from controversy. It may even help us in the long run because we have to look for the positives."

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