The former Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder appeared from the bench for his first appearance since featuring for Besiktas against Antalyaspor in February 2023.

But joy turned to despair for Dele, who was given his marching orders for stamping down the back of former team-mate Ruben Loftus-Cheek's leg later on.

Como had taken a 33rd-minute lead at San Siro with Nico Paz setting up Lucas da Cunha, who beat the returning Mike Maignan with a first-time 20-yard strike.

Da Cunha thought he had doubled the visitors' advantage six minutes into the second half, but his neat finish was ruled out after a video assistant referee (VAR) review for offside in the build-up.

Milan capitalised on its reprieve to level within 30 seconds, as Tijjani Reijnders teed up Christian Pulisic to volley home the equaliser.

The Netherlands international struck the woodwork midway through the half, but was not to be denied as he finished neatly in the 75th minute to complete the turnaround.

Como could not respond and was reduced to 10 men in stoppage-time, with substitute Dele shown a straight red card after a VAR review, while Milan held on to secure a second comeback victory in as many matches.

The Rossoneri, who recovered from 2-0 down to beat Lecce 3-2 last time out, produced another inspired turnaround, and have now gained 15 points from losing positions this season, with only Bologna collecting more in Serie A with 16.