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Manchester United were knocked out of the competition by the League Two side
Manchester United have endured a mixed start to the new season. They lost to Arsenal at home on the opening day before drawing 1-1 away at Fulham. The Red Devils beat Burnley 3-2 at Old Trafford last time out courtesy of Bruno Fernandes’ late penalty.
Ruben Amorim’s side were also knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Grimsby Town at the second round stage. The transfer window shut earlier this week so they are stuck with what they have got now for the next few months. They have until January before they can start trading properly again.
Pundit has say on potential Grimsby Town removal from Carabao Cup
Grimsby fieled an ineligible player in their win against United last month. The Mariners drew 2-2 with with the Red Devils after normal time. They then beat them 12-11 on penalties at Blundell Park.
However, it has since come to light that Clarke Odour hadn’t been registered in time for David Artell’s side. Instead of being kicked out of the competition, they have paid a fine. They play Sheffield Wednesday of the Championship in the next round.
Pundit Jason Cundy has delivered his verdict on the situation on "First off, if you break the rules like that I don't see how Grimsby can be in the competition, I genuinely don't. It sounds harsh but if that had happened the other way round, would we say: 'No, its fine, £20,000 fine for Man Utd'? Are we now judging it by the club? They broke the rules. I'm sorry, you have to leave the competition.
"I don't think Man Utd should get in either by the way. They got knocked out. What should happen now, whoever they're facing, they should get a bye. Grimsby should not be in the competition. If there's a law it should be the same for everyone."
Meanwhile, Darren Bent has said: "You have to question Grimsby's place in the competition."
What now for Manchester United?
United will be relieved to have seen off Burnley in their last outing before the international break. They had to be patient and dig deep against the Clarets to secure all three points. Their last opponents were promoted from the second tier last term along with Leeds United and Sunderland.
Amorim’s men don’t have the distraction of Europe in this campaign after finishing 15th in the table last time around. They also lost in the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao last May. Therefore, they can solely focus on their league duties which is a blessing in disguise.
The Red Devils ended up having a busy summer on the recruitment front. They delved into the market to bring in the likes of Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo. The latter has made a positive impression since his switch from fellow top flight outfit Brentford.
United are back in action next Sunday. They face an away trip to the Etihad Stadium to play rivals Manchester City. They then play Chelsea at home the week after.
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