With the fallout from the Manchester Derby controversy still consuming today’s headlines, United have already shifted their focus to a third-round Carabao Cup fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.
Michael Carrick may be battling the expected response after an underwhelming start to the Premier League season, but a congested schedule has left little time to lick any wounds.
Four points from four fixtures is a horrid return for any team, particularly the 20-time English champions. Still, fortunes can change in a moment, and a midweek victory offers the allure of momentum.
Coincidentally, after Sunday’s bizarre officiating, you’ll be pleased to know the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will not play any part in Wednesday’s Old Trafford fixture, with the system only used for the semi-final and beyond.
Squad rotation will provide one of the most persistent talking points throughout the campaign, with United competing across multiple fronts for the foreseeable future.
Understandably, injuries, or a lack of them, will play a significant role for the Reds and Carrick has supplied an update on several of his first-team stars.
“Amad, not quite close in terms of days, you know?” the 45-year-old confirmed. “We’ll see as the week progresses.
“Matta’s [De Ligt] just working his way back, really. So because of the time frame, and how it’s been, I don’t want to really put too much time frame on it.”
Luke Shaw was a notable absentee from Sunday’s matchday squad, missing his first fixture in over a year. However, the full-back is close to a return, and his setback has been deemed minor.
“He [Shaw] could possibly be fit for Brighton. It’s not clear-cut, but it’s a matter of a few days rather than anything else.”
Carlos Baleba has impressed officials with his progress since arriving in Manchester, and continues working on an individual training plan. He will not feature on Wednesday, but the gaffer has supplied a positive update.
“He [Baleba] will be back in and around the group at some point over the next week or so. That means, after internationals, he should be in good shape.”
United have enjoyed considerable success in the League Cup, lifting the trophy six times, with the most recent triumph coming under Erik ten Hag in 2023.
The Reds last faced Brighton in the competition behind closed doors due to COVID-19 restrictions. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men progressed from that fourth-round tie with a 3-0 win at the Amex Stadium.
VAR aside, the Carabao Cup is also unique in that a penalty shootout will decide matters if the teams are level after 90 minutes. So don’t be surprised if Old Trafford endures further drama on Wednesday evening.
Farai Hallam will officiate the fixture, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 PM BST. It will be his first time overseeing a Manchester United match.
Predicted Manchester United starting XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Mazraoui, Yoro, Heaven, Dorgu; Santos, Mount; Lacey, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.
Let us know your thoughts in the comments or across our social channels. Photo by News Images via depositphotos.com.
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