MANCHESTER UNITED LOSE 3-2 TO BRIGHTON IN EFL CUP OPENER

Manchester United lost 3-2 at home to Brighton & Hove Albion in their EFL Cup opener at Old Trafford on Wednesday, according to a report. Shea Lacey and Mason Mount put the hosts two goals ahead inside the first ten minutes, but Brighton fought back to win. Charalampos Kostoulas scored in first-half stoppage time, before Pascal Gross added a second-half equaliser and substitute Maxim De Cuyper struck the winner shortly after coming on. Supporters criticised defender Ayden Heaven's performance following the result, the report said.

Heaven, who joined Manchester United's academy from Arsenal, struggled to contain Brighton's attack throughout the match, according to the report. He was nutmegged in the build-up to De Cuyper's winning goal and conceded a late free-kick as United searched for an equaliser. The report said Heaven had impressed when given chances during Michael Carrick's spell in caretaker charge of the first team last season, though his minutes had since been managed carefully. Pre-match attention had also focused on academy player JJ Gabriel, who has reportedly asked to leave the club, while Lacey was praised for opening the scoring.

The defeat added pressure on Carrick after Manchester United surrendered an early two-goal lead at Old Trafford, the report said. It described Heaven as one of the club's most highly-rated young players, adding that his performance served as a reminder he remains a developing talent rather than the finished article. Karl Darlow, beaten by De Cuyper's close-range finish, started the match in goal for United. The report did not confirm whether Carrick or the club planned any changes following the exit from the competition.