Man Utd Predicted XI vs Brighton: Luke Shaw Boost, De Ligt Update and Major Rotation Expected

United are still frustrated by their 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at the weekend, with Erling Haaland’s winning goal later acknowledged by officials as a decision that should not have stood.

Attention now turns to cup action at Old Trafford, where Carrick is expected to rotate his side ahead of Sunday’s Premier League trip to Fulham and the upcoming international break.

Luke Shaw closing in on comeback

Shaw missed the Manchester derby because of muscle tightness, forcing Carrick to deploy Patrick Dorgu at left-back.

However, the England international is believed to be nearing full fitness and could feature against Brighton.

Even if Shaw is not ready to start, there is optimism that he could receive valuable minutes from the bench as United carefully manage his return.

His comeback would be a major boost for Carrick, with Shaw offering experience, balance and quality on the left side of the defence.

Matthijs de Ligt update gives United hope

Another player edging closer to a return is Matthijs de Ligt.

The Dutch defender has not played since November after suffering a back injury, and his absence has been keenly felt during a period in which United have looked vulnerable defensively.

Although Brighton may come too soon for De Ligt, his progress offers encouragement as United look to strengthen their options at the back ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

Carrick set to rotate

With Fulham awaiting on Sunday, Carrick is expected to make several changes.

Karl Darlow could replace Senne Lammens in goal, while Noussair Mazraoui may come in at right-back after Diogo Dalot endured a difficult afternoon against Manchester City.

Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are both pushing for starts in central defence, potentially allowing Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire a rest.

If Shaw is not ready to start, Dorgu could shift further forward and operate on the left wing.

Amad Diallo’s ankle injury leaves United short of options on the right flank, meaning Bryan Mbeumo could keep his place, although youngster Shea Lacey remains an alternative.

In midfield, Andrey Santos could be given an opportunity alongside Youri Tielemans, while Bruno Fernandes is expected to continue in the number 10 role.

Benjamin Sesko is also pushing to lead the attack, with Matheus Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee available as alternatives.

Predicted Manchester United XI vs Brighton

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper: Karl Darlow

Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Luke Shaw

Midfield: Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans

Attacking midfield: Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Patrick Dorgu

Striker: Benjamin Sesko

Injury list

Doubt: Luke Shaw

Unavailable: Carlos Baleba, Tom Heaton, Amad Diallo, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt

Wednesday’s tie offers United an opportunity to move on quickly from derby disappointment while giving returning players valuable minutes ahead of an important period in the season.

Shaw’s potential comeback will be one of the major talking points, while supporters will also be watching closely for further signs that De Ligt’s long-awaited return is approaching.