Man United seek VAR‑fuelled lift ahead of Brighton cup tie

Manchester United’s squad will channel the fury from Sunday’s Old Trafford derby loss – a 1‑0 defeat sealed by Erling Haaland’s controversial winner – into their Carabao Cup quarter‑final against Brighton on Wednesday, says head coach Michael Carrick, who also gave an update on left‑back Luke Shaw’s fitness.

Four points from four league games

United have collected only four points from their opening four Premier League fixtures, a return far below the standards expected at Old Trafford. The tally leaves them languishing in the lower half of the table as the season reaches its early stages.

The defeat on Sunday was decided by a goal from Erling Haaland that stood despite Enzo Fernandez being in an off‑side position and interfering with play. De Referee body Pro Ref later admitted the VAR officials made a mistake, a slip that has fuelled United’s frustration.

Michael Carrick believes the controversy will give his side an edge. “It does give you something to use moving forward when something like that happens,” he said, adding that the players have already shown resilience since his appointment.

United travel to Old Trafford on Wednesday night for a Carabao Cup clash with Brighton, the same venue where the Brighton side eliminated them from the FA Cup earlier this year. Carrick hinted at a possible rotation but warned that excessive changes could risk another setback.

Injury concerns loom

Shaw remains a doubt at left‑back after being substituted against Sabah and City; Carrick described his situation as “not clear‑cut” but hopeful of a return within a few days. Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt are also on the recovery trail, with both players still working their way back to full fitness.

Mid‑season signing Carlos Baleba, who arrived from Brighton for £70 million, has resumed training at Carrington despite an ankle injury sustained before his move. Carrick expects Baleba to be involved with the group after the international break.

Last week Carrick altered his side for the Champions League tie against Sabah, a move that highlighted his willingness to experiment ahead of the cup fixture. He stressed that while rotation is necessary, stability remains crucial to avoid further setbacks.

The story was filed by CHRIS WHEELER, NORTHERN SPORTS WRITER, on 15 September 2026.