Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag was let down by three players in nightmare Chelsea bottle job

Erik ten Hag took a significant hit in his fight against the Manchester United sack on Thursday night as his side surrendered to a post-100th-minute comeback against Chelsea. Cole Palmer's hat-trick carried the Blues to a 4-3 victory at Stamford Bridge, leaving United's Champions League hopes in tatters.

Antony and Alejandro Garnacho were Ten Hag's best performers in west London. Their combination for the visitors' go-ahead goal was a worthy winner.

But Express Sport picks out three players who let the Dutchman down as United stare a disastrous Premier League season in the face.

Andre Onana

Andre Onana has improved following a poor start to his United career, and admittedly, the 28-year-old goalkeeper saved his team on numerous occasions against Chelsea.

But Conor Gallagher's early opener was a shot that he should've done better with. It's not the first time a fairly central effort has slipped under his body this term.

Did the goal ultimately affect the result? Probably not. But the fourth-minute strike set up the chaotic nature of the clash, which laid the foundations for an incredible finale.

He was also sent the wrong way by both of Palmer's penalties, missing out on the chance of making himself the hero of the night.

Diogo Dalot

Diogo Dalot produced a wonderful cross to pick out Bruno Fernandes at the back post for United's first-half equaliser. But he also displayed his defensive flaws to expose the back line.

The 25-year-old started as Ten Hag's left-back - with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both still unavailable - but he is experienced enough in the role.

He was miles out of position in the build-up to Gallagher's opener, leaving United vulnerable to an ever-familiar problem caused by a cut-back.

Then, late in stoppage time, Dalot's clumsy slip brought Noni Madueke down and conceded the penalty that sparked Chelsea's comeback.