Former Manchester City winger Trevor Sinclair has branded Manchester United defender Chris Smalling "silly" for getting himself sent off during this afternoon's ongoing derby at the Etihad Stadium.

Smalling was initially cautioned in the 32nd minute after he had attempted to prevent City goalkeeper Joe Hart from taking a quick kick.

Then, just seven minutes later, he was handed his second yellow card for a mistimed sliding challenge on James Milner, but United survived until the break on level terms.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Sinclair said of Smalling's actions: "The first yellow was needless. Chris Smalling will regret that first challenge on Joe Hart.

"The second was a challenge he had to make as City were looking for the opening down the flank again. Smalling mistimed his challenge but that is what happens when you give a silly yellow card away."

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