Ronaldo rage - sent off for butting and out of derby

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Sir Alex Ferguson was furious at the sending-off of Cristiano Ronaldo last night as Manchester United made their worst start since 1998.

Ronaldo was banished in the 85th minute for butting Richard Hughes as the champions were held 1-1 at Fratton Park by Portsmouth — making it two points from two games.

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Not so good with his head: Ronaldo was sent for this butt on Richard Hughes

Already without injured Wayne Rooney for two months, Ferguson will now lose Ronaldo for at least three matches.

The United manager claimed his player had "fallen into a trap" after being provoked, but said: "Steve Bennett has sent him off before and he took great delight in doing it again."

Portsmouth were reduced to 10 men only two minutes earlier when midfielder Sulley Muntari was dismissed for a second yellow card.

Ronaldo then retaliated as players jostled at a United corner and Ferguson said: "I looked at the replay and couldn't see anything, but maybe Cristiano was provoked and he has fallen for it.

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"This is something he has suffered from a few times. He has got to learn from this. He has got to tell himself that they are inferior players and not to fall for these things. He has fallen into a trap and paid the penalty."

It is nine years since United failed to win either of their opening two games, but Ferguson said: "We played some fantastic football but missed good openings."

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Portsmouth are planning a £10million move to lure Nicolas Anelka from Bolton, believing former target Yakubu is about to join Everton from Middlesbrough.

Bolton are holding out for a fee nearer £12m, but Portsmouth are prepared to offer wide midfielder Matthew Taylor in part exchange.

 

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