Manchester United’s hunt for trophies is over inside the second week of January after a ruthless Brighton took advantage of yet another loose defensive performance. This FA Cup third-round knockout means the 13-times winners have been dumped from the competition and the League Cup at the first opportunity for a first time since 1981-82.
By the end of May United’s season will stand at a total of 40 games – their lowest number in a complete campaign since 1914-15. If August’s Carabao Cup penalty shootout elimination at Grimsby was dire, this disappointment was as concerningly insipid, goals from Brajan Gruda and Danny Welbeck, one in each half, (probably) ending Darren Fletcher’s record as the interim manager as winless – this defeat following Wednesday’s draw at Burnley in the Premier League.
Danny Welbeck talks to TNT Sports
It’s massive to win here and we’re delighted. There were a few boys who haven’t been playing regularly so put on that performance was huge and it shows the depth of the squad. We’re all buzzing in the dressing-room.
[On his goal] When the ball’s coming across you like that, your second touch needs to be a shot. It was a good first touch and I knew I needed to get a clean connection.
[What’s the secret of playing so well at 35?] I can’t say too much, the drug testers’ll come for me! Fortunately I’ve got a good family, good genes. A lot of hard work: I eat well, I look after myself and I prepare well for every training session. Yeah, I’m feeling good. Long may it continue.
[Darren Fletcher] helped me massively as a young boy at United so it was really nice to see him on the sidelines. I’ve got the utmost respect for him.
[On his World Cup chances] I’m just focussing on the here and now with Brighton. I know that football can change, anything can happen, but I’m just really enjoying the present. I’m controlling what I can control.
