Jamie Redknapp has criticized Joshua Zirkzee's performance as a substitute in Manchester United's Carabao Cup defeat to Brighton, saying the Dutch forward "couldn't pass the ball to his own teammate." United lost 3-2 at home after leading 2-0, marking their first such collapse in 50 years.
United's Early Dominance Fades
Manchester United entered the match looking to recover from a derby defeat to Manchester City on Sunday. Michael Carrick's side started strongly, with teenager Shea Lacey scoring a stunning goal after eight minutes. Mason Mount doubled the lead just two minutes later, but Brighton pulled one back before halftime through Charalampos Kostoulas.
Brighton equalized in the second half via Pascal Gross, just before Carrick made three substitutions. Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes replaced Andrey Santos and Mason Mount, while Joshua Zirkzee came on for Benjamin Sesko. The changes failed to stem the tide, and Brighton scored a third through Maxim De Cuyper minutes after the substitutions.
Redknapp's Verdict on United's Substitutions
Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, Redknapp praised Brighton's performance but criticized United's tactical adjustments. "They looked better coached, they had patterns of play even though they made changes today they looked like a thoroughly good side," he said.
"United threw on their insurance policy in Bruno and Mainoo. Everyone thought they might be able to make an impact and in fact it made them worse. Zirkzee came on and couldn't pass the ball to his own teammate. Incredible for Brighton, they deserved it."
Historic Defeat and Season Struggles
The defeat marked the first time United had led at home by two goals and lost since a 3-2 loss to Tottenham in 1976. United have now won just two of their opening six matches in all competitions, against Ipswich Town and Azerbaijan side Sabah.
