Darren Fletcher has challenged Manchester United's players to prevent their season from being a write-off following their FA Cup exit at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion. The Red Devils suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the third round at Old Trafford, marking only the third time in the last 41 years that they have been eliminated from the FA Cup so early. This loss, coupled with their earlier elimination from the Carabao Cup, means United have been knocked out of both domestic cup competitions at the first hurdle for the first time since the 1981-82 season.

Goals from Brajan Gruda and former United striker Danny Welbeck sealed the victory for Brighton, while Benjamin Sesko's late goal proved to be a mere consolation for the home side. The match concluded with teenage substitute Shea Lacey receiving a red card for two bookable offenses, compounding United's misery.

Fletcher, the interim boss, didn't hold back in his assessment of the team's performance and mentality. He admitted that the players appeared "fragile" and urged them to "dig deep" to salvage the season. "Out of cups, only Premier League games to play for, the fans weren't happy at the end, but they have got every right to air their grievances," Fletcher said. He acknowledged the fans' disappointment but expressed confidence that they would support the team if the players demonstrate the right response.

Fletcher stressed the importance of the players taking responsibility and working together to improve quickly. He believes that Champions League qualification should be the team's objective and mindset for the remainder of the season. "Don't waste the season," Fletcher urged, emphasizing that it’s up to the players to ensure they have a lot to play for.

Despite the defeat and the club's current struggles, Fletcher maintained that the team is still capable of achieving success this season. He acknowledged that the club is "not in a great moment" but insisted that it is not too late to turn things around. United are currently seventh in the Premier League, within three points of fourth place.

The loss against Brighton means that United will play a minimum of 40 games this season, their lowest since the 2014/15 campaign. With their hopes of silverware resting solely on the Premier League, the pressure is on the players to deliver a significant turnaround. Fletcher's message was clear: the players must come together, take responsibility, and fight for a Champions League spot to avoid a wasted season.

Fletcher also commented on his future with the club, stating he will report to Carrington the next morning. He mentioned he had zero indication of what the future holds for him and that all his energy was focused on the two games he was in charge for. He also said he was surprised that he was offered the job for two games because he was not expecting it.