In 188 editions of the Manchester derby there have only been four hat-tricks scored by Manchester City players – and two of them were scored yesterday.
Erling Haaland and Phil Foden joined Francis Lee and Horace Barnes – 1970 and 1921, no less – in City’s annals and this was certainly an event that will live long in the memory of all who were there, no matter on which side of the red and blue divide. For the reds it will have been as painful as it was joyful for the blues, who were so comprehensively superior that the 6-3 scoreline – Anthony Martial pulled two back late, a header following in, and another from the penalty spot, which he won – actually flattered the losers.