Hurzeler’s players showed scant regard for lofty reputations. There was an unmistakable air of opportunity knocking off the back of a restorative 4-0 win at Norwich in the FA Cup and a 2-0 victory at Ipswich on Thursday, which ended eight matches without a win in the league — including six draws.

But Ferguson and the others had barely reached their seats before Brighton took the lead less than five minutes in. It was all too easy as Carlos Baleba floated a ball over to put

The Red Devils have now lost four of their last five matches at Old Trafford, and were second best in this contest.