Manchester United are looking to bounce back from their disappointing Europa League exit as they take on Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup semi-final. After early season struggles, with losses to Brentford and Manchester City, as well as a poor showing against Liverpool and Newcastle United, United have had to battle through adversity for much of the season. Manager Erik ten Hag will be hoping for a statement performance from his side after their midweek loss to Sevilla.
The Carabao Cup champions will be looking to add further silverware this season, but Thursday’s defeat will undoubtedly be on their minds. One key change that could be made is dropping Jadon Sancho from the starting line-up. Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst believes that the £73m man did not show up against Sevilla, with only 30 touches and seven possessions lost in his 45-minute outing. His struggles were further exacerbated by his poor defensive efforts, winning only three of his seven duels.
Despite a recent assist for Scott McTominay in the win over Everton, Sancho’s form has been below par for much of the season. With Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho waiting in the wings, Ten Hag may opt to leave the former Dortmund man on the bench. Against a strong Brighton side, United cannot afford to have any passengers on the field if they are to advance to the final.
