Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has slammed the English FA for its “disgraceful” and “farcical” decision not to ban Fernando Torres for scratching Jan Vertonghen’s face.

During Saturday’s heated clash with Chelsea, the Spain international striker was sent off for two yellow cards but avoided a straight red card earlier in the match.

Torres was captured on television scratching the face of Spurs defender Vertonghen, leaving visible marks, and led to the FA reviewing the incident.

However, as one of the match officials saw the incident, no action could be taken under FA rules – a decision that completely dumbfounded Villas-Boas.

“It’s extremely difficult to know where to start,” the Portuguese said.

“Obviously, it is almost a farcical decision. It doesn’t matter to me which player or club is involved.

“Neither do I want to with my words put into question Fernando’s integrity; neither their manager’s, in trying to defend what is our position.

“I think the FA has made a decision almost a joke. How can you see the images, pretty clear, and come out without punishment, on something (which) overtakes all professional behaviour?

“I think the decision is a disgrace. If the committee can’t solve such clear images I don’t think it sets out a good first example.

“We don’t want Fernando Torres suspended but I think the FA has lost all opportunity to put some sense into the images everybody saw.”