Danny Welbeck delivered a crushing blow to Manchester United’s season on Sunday, scoring the winning goal in a 2-1 victory for Brighton at Old Trafford.
Following a turbulent week that saw Ruben Amorim dismissed, the Red Devils’ woes continued under interim boss Darren Fletcher.
The Seagulls took an early lead through Brajan Gruda, but a late header from Benjamin Sesko briefly gave United hope of a comeback.
However, Welbeck’s clinical finish in the 64th minute proved decisive. To add to United’s misery, youngster Shea Lacey was sent off late on for a second bookable offense.
The result marks the first time since 2014 that United have exited the competition in the third round, leaving them with only the Premier League to play for this season.