Manchester United will be looking to return to winning ways when they host Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.
United head into the fixture off the back of a 1-0 defeat to rivals Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
They have lost four of their last five home matches against the visitors, raising more concerns ahead of Wednesday’s cup clash.
Manager Michael Carrick is expected to make several changes to the side that started against Man City, but the team should still be strong enough to compete against the Seagulls.
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow should make his first competitive start, while Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount will be pushing to make their first start of the season.
Academy graduate Shea Lacey should also feature, but it remains to be seen whether teenager JJ Gabriel will be handed his first senior competitive appearance following his strong start to the season for the academy.
Brighton are a possession-oriented side — they lead the Premier League for possession this season.
Rather than trying to dominate, United should look to stay compact, press aggressively and exploit the spaces left behind by the Seagulls’ advanced players.
The visitors are also vulnerable at set-pieces, conceding four goals from such situations this term.
Brighton have enjoyed a bright start to the season, collecting seven points from their opening four league matches.
Fabian Hurzeler’s side ranks first for goals scored, expected goals (xG), and big chances created.
Captain Lewis Dunk, goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and midfielder Pascal Gross are three of their most in-form players.
Gross has scored seven goals against Man United, his highest against any opposition, further underlining his threat.
The visitors will look to dominate possession and exploit the Red Devils’ defensive vulnerabilities, making it important for Carrick’s side to remain compact without the ball.
Stats from Sofascore & Transfermarkt