Fletcher names one Man United star who will 'make amends' in future after FA Cup exit

Manchester United suffered a humiliating FA Cup exit after a 2–1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

Goals either side of half-time from Brajan Gruda and former United striker Danny Welbeck put the visitors firmly in control at 2–0.

Benjamin Sesko made the last few minutes interesting by scoring with a thumping header.

United looked to make a dramatic comeback, but two yellow cards for Shea Lacey reduced them to 10 men in stoppage time.

Interim head coach Darren Fletcher chose to shield the teenager after full-time, insisting the setback would serve as a vital learning moment.

He said (via ManUtd.com): “He’s disappointed because he cares and he understands. He knows he will learn from it.

“There’s no doubt about his talent and it’s a steep learning curve today but we believe in Shea, he’s one of our most exciting young prospects.

“I’m sure at Old Trafford he will have a chance to make amends for that in the future.”

Lacey was sent on for Mason Mount at the hour mark, with the Englishman failing to provide width to the attack.

The 18-year-old brought energy to the final third with his attacking runs forward.

His quick feet and step-overs repeatedly lifted the Old Trafford crowd, offering a rare spark on a frustrating afternoon.

Lacey delivered dangerous crosses with both feet, one of which created a promising opening for Sesko.

However, his afternoon unravelled when he collected an initial booking for a mistimed challenge.

Moments later, frustration got the better of him as he earned a second yellow for throwing the ball away.

That lapse forced United to see out the closing minutes a man down, extinguishing any realistic hopes of a late escape.

Life in this struggling United side is unforgiving, and Lacey learned first-hand why composure is a non-negotiable trait at the top level.

The wonderkid will surely get more opportunities in the first team this season.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .