It's been a jam-packed opening spell at the Britannia Stadium, where Stoke City are hosting Manchester United. Rory Delap has already made sure that new goalkeeper David de Gea is familiar with the concept of a howitzer throw, and while the 20-year-old survive the encounter (barely) things would go slightly worse for another youngster exposed to a Stokeing shortly thereafter - Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has been forced off due to injury thanks to the combined efforts of Jonathan Woodgate and Asmir Begovic.
Stoke City Vs. Manchester United, 2011 Premier League: Javier Hernandez Injury Hits United Early
The Mexican striker was racing clear after a through ball and was about to plant a shot past Begovic and open the scoring when Woodgate, sprinting back, stuck a foot between his legs, tapping the ball and tripping his opponent in the process. Chicharito went flying into Begovic and landed awkwardly on his head. After a lengthy spell on the ground, Hernandez came back into the match, but considering his migraine problems this year it was never worth keeping him on the field and he was withdrawn for Michael Owen as soon as the veteran had finished warming. It's unfortunate news for United and fans of exciting football, especially after Chicharito had made a quick recovery from a mauling at the hands of Ashley Cole last week as well.
I’m not sure how that wasn’t a penalty, either.
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