The Premier League has confirmed neither Manchester United or Everton have broken any rules regarding Tim Howard's transfer.
Howard joined Everton on a season-long loan deal last summer, before the move became permanent in February.
Questions were raised over the transfer when Howard did not feature against United in the recent clash between the two sides at
The League contacted the two clubs to find out why the American goalkeeper was not involved as it would not have allowed the deal to be made permanent if United had requested a clause preventing Howard from playing against them.
However, after investigating the matter the League has cleared both clubs of any wrongdoing.
A statement from the Premier League said: "At the time of Tim Howard's permanent transfer from Manchester United to Everton, the Premier League ensured there were no agreements in place that contravened our rules.
"As a result of recent comments we had sought further clarification from both clubs and are satisfied that it remains the case that there were no agreements that breached any of our rules.
"Everton were free to play Tim Howard in their fixture against Manchester United had they so wished - and this has been confirmed by both clubs."