Manchester United have been kicked out of the FA Cup by Brighton, with caretaker manager Darren Fletcher admitting his struggling players lack confidence and need to be picked up.
Manchester United manager did not hesitate in his assessment (Image: )
Darren Fletcher accused Manchester United of being naive in their flop after watching them lose to Brighton in the FA Cup. Fletcher’s short spell as caretaker manager ended on a whimper as United lost 2-1 at Old Trafford.
Despite a late goal from Benjamin Sesco, goals from Brajan Gruda and Danny Welbeck were enough to advance Brighton into the fourth round. Then, late on, substitute Shea Lacey was sent off for a second offense, and United’s misery became complete.
United were booed and Fletcher accused his team of being weak. He said, “We started well, but we couldn’t maintain the tempo. Our passes were quite slow. We couldn’t move the ball according to the tempo. We created chances, but it was difficult to push the ball to two points.”
“The players are fragile and we need to push ourselves and respond. Confidence is one of the most powerful things in football, but when you don’t have it, you have to develop your confidence.
“They have to stick together. Only the players can do anything about it. They have to find a way to win. It’s hard work, attitude and application.”
read more: Manchester United set an unexpected record for the first time in 44 years amid further frustration after defeat at Brightonread more: Darren Fletcher says Manchester United have hit their lowest record as Danny Welbeck ends their hopes of qualifying for the FA Cup – 5 talking points
Fletcher, who will be replaced by another caretaker manager until the end of the season, believes the home fans were right to heckle United. He added: “Someone will come in and lead them. This team is still good enough to do something this season. We haven’t talked about anything other than this game. Things will become clear in the next few days.”
“The fans have the right to vent their frustrations and they are right to do so. I am confident that if the players respond correctly, the fans will support us again. There is still work to be done in the league this season.”
Darren Fletcher failed to win any of his matches (Image: )
Winner Welbeck said: “It’s a huge thing. Coming here in the FA Cup is always a big opportunity, whether it’s the FA Cup or the Premier League. We’re very happy to be able to progress to the next round.”
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