Manchester City dedicated their 3-0 derby victory over Manchester United to lifelong fan and former world champion boxer Ricky Hatton, who was found dead at his home on Sunday at the age of 46. Phil Foden, who scored the opening goal, said he had extra motivation for the match. 'One hundred per cent I had extra motivation going into the game. It was for him and his family and for the people suffering right now,' he told Sky Sports.
Before kick-off, there was a minute's appreciation for Hatton, with an image of the boxer shown on the Etihad Stadium's screens and constant applause. Manager Pep Guardiola described it as the most intense minute's appreciation he had witnessed in his ten years at the club. 'There are no words that can contain the pain that the family feels right now,' he said.
Hatton, a lifelong City fan who wore sky blue shorts and used the club's anthem 'Blue Moon' as his walkout song, was found at his Manchester home on Sunday morning. Police confirmed his death was not being treated as suspicious. Guardiola added: 'It was tough news to wake up to. Of course he had success and was world champion, but it's the loss for his family, his kids – he was a grandad. It's so tough for everyone.'
A club statement released before the match read: 'Ricky was one of City's most loved and revered supporters. He will always be remembered. Everyone at the club would like to send our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.' In 2008, Hatton fulfilled a dream by fighting Juan Lazcano at the Etihad Stadium, winning by unanimous points decision in front of 56,000 fans.
