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On this day: Old Trafford erupts in chaos

On 20 October 1990, tempers flared at Old Trafford as Manchester United and Arsenal players became embroiled in a mass brawl.

Chaos erupted after Arsenal’s Nigel Winterburn lunged into United defender Denis Irwin, prompting a furious reaction from Brian McClair.

An astonishing 21 players became involved in the melee, with Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman the only man to stay out of trouble.

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Arsenal claimed a 1-0 win courtesy of Anders Limpar’s first-half strike, but both clubs faced severe punishment. The Gunners were docked two points, United lost one, and each club was fined £50,000. Despite the deduction, Arsenal went on to win the league title.

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