Phil Foden sent off in Manchester derby for wild kick on Bruno Fernandes
Phil Foden was sent off in the 23rd minute of the Manchester derby after kicking out at Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.
The Stockport-born Foden became the first Manchester City player to be sent off in the derby since 2006 and left his team down to 10 men at Old Trafford.
The incident came midway through an even first half of the Premier League clash.
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Foden was challenged by Fernandes near the touchline and fell to the ground on top of the ball.
Fernandes then made contact with Foden as he attempted to kick the ball, catching the bottom of his back.
Foden reacted angrily and, while lying on the ground, kicked out at Fernandes with both feet, catching him in the stomach.
He was shown a straight-red card by referee Michael Oliver and the decision was checked and then backed-up by VAR.
According to the Premier League Match Centre, Oliver saw a “kick out into the body of Bruno” from Foden.
The VAR official Matt Donohue then confirmed: “That looks like a clear red card to me. Looks to be a secondary movement.”
Fernandes was not punished for the role he played after initially kicking Foden while he was on the ground.
It was seen as a lucky escape for the Portuguese, according to former Manchester United defender Gary Neville.
“I am surprised that Fernandes has got away without a booking,” Neville said during his commentary on Sky Sports.
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