Manchester United vs Brighton LIVE - FA Cup updates plus early team news and how to watch

Manchester United face Brighton this afternoon in a game they need to win if they are to keep their hopes of a trophy alive this season.

United fell at the first hurdle in the Carabao Cup to Grimsby Town, and a defeat today would mean they will play just 40 games in all competitions this season.

The Reds come into the game on the back of a 2-2 draw with Burnley on Wednesday, and interim boss Darren Fletcher knows his side cannot afford to be dumped out of the FA Cup this afternoon.

In terms of the team news, there aren't expected to be any new additions to the United matchday squad with Matthijs de Ligt still sidelined by a back injury. Bryan Mbeumo will not be rushed back into action despite his Cameroon side being dumped out of the Africa Cup of Nations this week.

Follow the live blog below for updates throughout the day:

Fletcher will take charge of his second game as caretaker manager today. The former midfielder was on the touchline against Burnley on Wednesday as United were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw at Turf Moor.

United have held talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick over taking the interim job until the end of the season, but Fletcher will get the chance to oversee the Brighton game. Regarding the team news, Matthijs de Ligt remains unavailable.

See how our writers think United should line up here >>>

The game will be televised live on TNT Sports. Coverage starts at 3.30pm on TNT Sports 2 ahead of kick-off at 4.30pm.

If you don't have access to TNT Sports then stick with us for the best analysis and updates.

Hello and welcome to our live blog of United's FA Cup third round clash with Brighton.

It's a must-win game for United as they look to keep their chances of a trophy alive this