Four Manchester United players have transfer point to prove vs Brighton

Aside from rivals Manchester City, the one team clubs do not want to face right now is Brighton.

The Seagulls are flying high in the Premier League and are on course for European football next season, currently in seventh. They have lost just once in their last nine matches, a record matched by Manchester United.

It’s no surprise that many were viewing Brighton as a tougher test than Sevilla ahead of Thursday, an assessment that now looks more ominous as the Wembley arch looms.

READ MORE: Sevilla defeat shows Erik ten Hag has to get ruthless

Bruno Fernandes is back after missing Sevilla through suspension which will make a huge difference, but so will the absences of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane. United have bounced back from defeats this season but their injuries make the task harder against Brighton.

That said, United will be the favourites and a few players have a point to prove after a dismal result against Sevilla and ahead of the summer transfer window. Harry Maguire would have been one but for his suspension from the clash.

His blunder for the opening goal in Spain is as much on David de Gea, who is currently in contract talks with his current deal set to expire this summer. The goalkeeper has undoubtedly been a fantastic servant to the club for over a decade, and is the last remaining squad member of the 2012/13 title-winning squad.

However, football has moved on over the last decade and De Gea’s howler for Sevilla’s third depicted the problem Erik ten Hag is wanting to solve - having a shot-stopper who is also good with his feet.

The Spaniard has made a number of crucial saves this season and he can reassert his stature in contract talks with a heroic display against Brighton. He will undoubtedly