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It looked like a classic case of softening up, of the game’s darker arts. Leading with his arm in a 13th-minute aerial challenge, the Arsenal full-back Cédric Soares clouted Bruno Fernandes about the head and then reinforced the impression by going after his fellow Portuguese to hiss a few words in his ear. Soares was booked. Granit Xhaka could also be seen in conversation with Fernandes. The upshot? The Manchester United midfielder was incensed and, moments later, he left his boot in on a challenge with Xhaka, raking the achilles of his opponent. It was a mystery how Fernandes, who did not have his most effective game, avoided censure but it was a rush of blood that could have led to problems. It would also have been noted by other wind-up merchants. Fernandes is driven by passion but he can be provoked. Cedric’s move will not be the last of its kind. David Hytner
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