Paul Robinson, the West Bromwich Albion left-back, was last night cleared of misconduct by a Football Association hearing in London.
Robinson was sent off in the final minute of Albion's match away to Fulham in the Carling Cup last week and, while his original three-match ban stands, he will not face further punishment.
Robinson requested a personal hearing after he was charged with using "abusive and or insulting words" to Andy D'Urso, the referee, after the sending-off.
Robinson, who denied the charge, was represented by John Evans, the Albion secretary, with Kevin Campbell, the Albion striker, appearing as a witness.
The FA panel, which also reviewed video footage of the incident, quickly cleared the former England Under- 21 international.
Bryan Robson, the Albion manager, who must do without Robinson for the match at West Ham United tomorrow, said: "It's only right that Paul has been cleared because he didn't swear at the referee.
"The FA panel has used common sense although I still feel Paul should not have been sent off in the first place."
Robinson will also miss Albion's match at home to Everton in 16 days' time.
Evans said: "We're obviously very pleased with the outcome. Paul conducted himself very well and Kevin proved to be a very credible witness."