Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has had a lot to deal with in recent weeks both on and off the pitch.
The disappointing late capitulation against Arsenal, followed by the controversies surrounding Jadon Sancho and Antony, mean there is extra importance on getting a positive result against Brighton this weekend.
Andre Onana will start in goal and, despite the arrival of Sergio Reguilon, Diogo Dalot is expected to keep his place at left-back after a decent display versus the Gunners. Aaron Wan-Bisska will start on the opposite flank.
Lisandro Martinez is struggling with a foot injury that forced him off at the Emirates. Despite subsequently training with Argentina, he did not play for his country during the international break.
With Raphael Varane still sidelined as well, it may mean that Harry Maguire will be selected to start alongside Victor Lindelof in the centre of defence.
Casemiro played on early Wednesday morning for Brazil and he is unlikely to be back in training until Friday, so it may be a good time to hand Sofyan Amrabat his debut instead.
The 26-year-old did not travel for international duty with Morocco due to a back problem but he is set to be available for Saturday’s game against the Seagulls. He could line up alongside Christian Eriksen and captain Bruno Fernandes in midfield.
Up front, Antony’s enforced absence, combined with Sancho’s falling out with ten Hag, means the United boss has limited options in wide areas. Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho are the two likeliest candidates to start.
Rasmus Hojlund came on and impressed as a late substitute against Arsenal, and he is now poised to make his first start for the Red Devils.
Manchester United’s Predicted XI to take on Brighton
Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Lindelof, Dalot, Fernandes, Amrabat, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund, Rashford
