Chelsea's Diego Costa avoids punishment for gesture to fans

Diego Costa was later sent off in the FA Cup quarter-final defeat

Chelsea striker Diego Costa will not be punished for making a gesture to Everton fans during his side's 2-0 defeat at Goodison Park.

The Spaniard was asked by the Football Association to explain the gesture, made as he left the pitch at half-time.

After receiving his observations, the FA has decided the 27-year-old will not face any action.

However the FA has yet to decide on the outcome of an improper conduct charge against Costa from the same game.

Costa received a second yellow card after clashing with Everton midfielder Gareth Barry in the 84th minute of the FA Cup quarter-final.

He was charged over his behaviour after being sent off, and has until 18:00 GMT on Thursday to respond to that charge.

The Chelsea player appeared to bite Barry in the incident, although both players have denied that happened.