CHARLIE Austin has escaped FA punishment after his outburst on Twitter aimed at Saints fans.

The former St Mary’s striker, who left in the summer to join West Brom last summer, called out supporters for not getting behind the south coast outfit.

In tweets that were swiftly deleted, Austin said: "You’re s**t fans, you don’t sing to get behind the team only when they score never when they need a boost."

It was then revealed that the FA had made contact with the ex-Saints striker about his conduct on social media and asked him to explain his actions.

However, English football’s governing body opted not to charge the 30-year-old.

Instead, they issued him with a formal warning, meaning no further action will be taken.

Austin was allowed to leave Saints after being deemed surplus to requirements by manager Ralph Hasenhuttl and was also made to train away from the first-team squad.

In January 2019, Austin admitted to an FA charge and was banned for two games after gesturing at Manchester City fans when substituted in Southampton's 3-1 defeat at St Mary's on December 30.

Austin made over 80 appearances for Saints, scoring 20 goals in all competitions before joining West Brom for £4m.

He has scored nine times in 28 matches in total this season for the Baggies, who are top of the Sky Bet Championship.