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Chelsea took full advantage of Manchester United’s second-half collapse to condemn the visitors to a third consecutive defeat and pile further pressure on manager Michael Carrick.
United are now without a win in nine games across all competitions, their longest such run since October-November 1988.
A fourth Premier League defeat of the season leaves United 16th, just a point above the relegation zone, with Carrick facing mounting pressure following a disappointing start to the campaign.
According to the ESPN, after an encouraging first-half performance, United allowed Morgan Rogers to run unchallenged through the heart of their defence before chipping home Chelsea’s opener five minutes into the second half.
Read more: Fans boo team as Chelsea humiliated 8-2 on aggregate by PSG in Champions League
Cole Palmer doubled the hosts’ advantage from the penalty spot 14 minutes later after VAR spotted Lisandro Martinez thrusting an arm into Wesley Fofana’s face despite not looking at the ball.
Martinez was subsequently sent off after receiving a second yellow card, and Palmer’s successful penalty effectively ended the contest.
Chelsea winger Estevao, making his first Premier League start of the season under Xabi Alonso, appeared to have added a third but his effort was ruled out for a marginal offside.
United had also found the net during a promising first half, but Matheus Cunha’s close-range header was disallowed following a VAR review for offside.
Recalled captain Bruno Fernandes also missed a good opportunity, while Amad Diallo twice failed to beat Chelsea goalkeeper Mike Penders when presented with promising chances.
However, United failed to maintain their first-half intensity after the break.
Chelsea, who had faced a scattering of boos at half-time, responded with an improved second-half display to ease the pressure.
Rogers capitalised on United’s defensive shortcomings to give the hosts the breakthrough before Martinez’s dismissal and Palmer’s penalty put Chelsea firmly in control.
Chelsea could have extended their advantage, with Estevao going close and substitute Valentin Barco missing a late opportunity.
United forward Bryan Mbeumo struck the crossbar in stoppage time, but the defeat leaves Carrick’s side facing the possibility of ending the weekend in the relegation zone.
Chelsea, meanwhile, climbed to fourth in the Premier League standings.
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