"‘Seize the Season!’ – Darren Fletcher Urges Man Utd Stars to Reflect on Their Futures After FA Cup Defeat"

DARREN FLETCHER has encouraged Manchester United players not to "waste" their season and to strive for qualification for the Champions League.

Furthermore, the 41-year-old cautioned that any player unwilling to meet the challenge should not remain at the club.

United lost 2-1 to BrightonCredit: Reuters Fletcher was booked after the final whistleCredit: Getty

Fletcher's brief caretaker role effectively concluded with a loss that guarantees United will finish the season without any trophies.

This marks the first time in 44 years that United has exited both domestic cup competitions in the first round, and their 40 games this season are the fewest in a full campaign since 1914-15.

United is anticipated to appoint a caretaker manager to oversee the remainder of the season within the next 48 hours.

Fletcher, whose winless two-game tenure ended on Sunday, became the first person at the club to explicitly aim for Champions League qualification.

Fletcher stated: "Any time you come into Manchester United, it’s a significant responsibility.

“For me, there’s still a lot to fight for this season.

“If we can get players back from injury and from Afcon, and have a fuller squad, I believe these players have the potential to secure a Champions League spot.

“That should be their goal, and that should be their mindset.

“However, they must come together and contribute to that effort.

“It’s not solely about a manager or directors; it’s about everyone, and the players need to unite, take responsibility, find ways to improve swiftly, and embrace the challenge for the rest of the season.

“Do not let this season go to waste.

“This isn’t the standard expected from Manchester United. However, we must take action.

“While this may not equate to success, qualifying for the Champions League would be a step forward.

“I keep reiterating this—it may sound repetitive—but there’s still much to play for in the league this season.

“Champions League spots are crucial for various reasons that you all understand.

“It’s important for the players and for attracting new talent.

“Thus, at all levels, they need to feel that this season has achieved some form of objective.”

The next United coach is expected to lead the team in the Manchester derby against City at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Fletcher, who could revert to his Under 18 coaching role, was part of the backroom staff at United four years ago when a Champions League round-of-16 defeat to Atletico Madrid triggered a decline in form.

Under interim manager Ralf Rangnick, United won two and lost six of their final nine matches, including 4-0 defeats at Liverpool and Brighton.

The tumultuous conclusion to the season was characterized by several high-profile players, including Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, entering the final months of their contracts.

United finished sixth, having been second the previous season, but Fletcher believes the atmosphere within the current squad is better than the toxic environment experienced during Rangnick’s five-month tenure.

Fletcher remarked: “That was a very unusual season. Many players were out of contract, and there were various dynamics at play.

“It was challenging after our Champions League exit; there was a significant drop-off that was apparent to everyone.

“However, that allowed us to see the true character of the players. Even in a disappointing season, despite the poor finish, true character reveals itself in tough times.

“We learned a lot about many of the players during that experience.

“The same will apply to these players now.

“In challenging moments, true character will emerge, so they must dig deep, demonstrate their desire to be part of Manchester United’s future, and learn from this.

“Ultimately, if you’re not committed, then I believe you