‘Bitterly disappointed’ Darren Fletcher says Man Utd players ‘need to step up’ | OneFootball

Manchester United interim manager Darren Fletcher has admitted that he is ‘bitterly disappointed’ following their early FA Cup exit.

The Reds lost 2-1 at home to Brighton in the third round of the competition. It means they have been knocked out of both domestic cups at the first time of asking.

“Well, bitterly disappointed because we are out of the FA Cup,” reflected Fletcher. “I think the players shared the reaction at the end and deservedly so.

“But they’re going to have to pick themselves up and recover because we’ve got a big game next week.”

Without European football this season, United will play just 40 games, and have no hopes of landing silverware.

“That is where we’re at,” admitted Fletcher. “We can’t hide behind that, we’ve got to face that. And we’ve got to deal with that.

“It’s not Manchester United level or what’s expected of Manchester United, but ultimately we have to do something about that.”

The interim boss continued: “And still, not a success, but take a step forward by qualifying for the Champions League.

“I keep repeating that, it sounds like a broken record, but there’s still a lot to play for in the league this season.

“And a Champions League place is important for a number of reasons that I don’t need to go into that you guys know.”

United are currently seventh in the Premier League table – one point behind fifth and three behind fourth.

Fletcher maintained: “For the players it’s important, and for attracting players it’s important. So on all levels, and for them to feel like this season has achieved an objective of some sort.

“But I keep saying it, the players have got to step up as well.

“They need to come together. And they will, and I’ll challenge them to do that. We’ve got enough leaders and experience and quality to do it.”