Maresca happy with point but insists Martinez should have been sent off
Enzo Maresca was happy with a point after Chelsea’s 1-1 draw against Manchester United but insisted Lisandro Martinez should have been sent off.
Moises Caicedo’s equaliser left the Blues fourth in the Premier League table.
Caicedo, who was outstanding, scored four minutes after Bruno Fernandes’ penalty had put United in front.
Fernandes netted from the spot after keeper Robert Sanchez came off his line and needlessly brought down Rasmus Hojlund.
The visitors quickly hit back. Cole Palmer’s corner was only partially cleared and Caicedo’s low volley went through the legs of team-mate Mykhailo Mudryk, past keeper Andre Onana and into the bottom corner of the net.
Blues head coach Mareca said: “In Italy we say when you can’t win it is important you don’t lose.”
In stoppage time, Martinez seemed fortunate not to be sent off for a crude challenge on Palmer for which the United defender received only a yellow card.
Maresca said: “There is no intention to go for the ball and you go for the player, for the legs, there is no doubt about the decision. I think it’s quite clear that it is a red card.”