Manchester United host Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Wednesday in the Carabao Cup Round of 32. The match offers a chance to reset after a 1-0 derby defeat to Manchester City last weekend left the side 13th in the Premier League table with four points from four games.
Their recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, a draw and two losses in their last five outings across all competitions. They followed a 4-0 friendly win over Sabah FA with a 2-2 draw at Everton and a 5-2 victory over Ipswich, but also suffered a 2-0 loss at Hull City. Bruno Fernandes, the team's top scorer with three goals this season, will be a key figure as they look to progress. The team's average of 45 goal minutes per game this season highlights their need for sharper finishing.
Injury list for Seagulls test
Erik ten Hag's selection options are limited by a series of injuries. Amad Diallo, Carlos Baleba and veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton are all sidelined with muscle, ankle and abdominal issues respectively, and are not expected back until the end of the month. Left-back Luke Shaw is also out with physical discomfort, while midfielder Manuel Ugarte faces a long-term absence with a cruciate ligament injury. The full extent of the squad's availability can be seen on our injuries page.
Brighton arrive in strong form, having thrashed Coventry City 5-0 away in their last match. Their recent results include a 1-1 draw with Leeds and a thrilling 4-3 defeat at Chelsea. They will be confident after scoring four goals in each of their two home games prior to the international break. Manchester United's recent defensive record, conceding an average of 1.8 points per game, will be tested by this attack.
With the Premier League schedule resuming at Fulham on Sunday, Ten Hag may look to rotate his squad for this cup tie. The manager will hope a positive result can provide a platform for the league campaign ahead.
