'I cost us the game' — Man United player confesses

Faruq Ibrahim 13:38 - 05 May 2023

Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw in action for Manchester United

Manchester United defender admits fault in defeat to Brighton.

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has taken responsibility for the Red Devils' loss to Brighton, saying he is hurt by the role he played in the defeat.

Brighton beat Erik ten Hag's side 1-0 at the AmEx Stadium to keep their European ambitions alive, and they needed a late penalty to win the match.

The game was headed for a draw before Luke Shaw handled the ball from a corner kick. Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to the hosts, and Alexis MacAllister made no mistake in beating David de Gea.

Luke Shaw's hand was in an unnatural position

What Shaw said

The England international was speaking after the game, where he took full responsibility for an incident that he said hurt him a lot.

The height and position of his hand were almost inexplicable, and he admitted as much, saying he could not explain how his hands got there.

Luke Shaw looking dejected after causing a penalty

"It hurts a lot," Shaw said, per 90 Min.

"It was the last minute, the last action, really, I think.

"I got a little nudge but, of course, the hand shouldn't be there, I own up to it and take it on the chin. I cost us the game and it's tough.

"I can't even explain why my hand is up there. Of course, I said I got a nudge and maybe that helped my arm go up, but it still shouldn't be there.

Football

Stats Talk: How Brighton dented Ten Hag’s managerial record

Erik Ten Hag ignored for Premier League manager of the season. |Imago image

Football

Man United boss Ten Hag angry with referee Andre Marriner in defeat to Brighton

"I think, even before the corner, the free-kick that was given away before that was never a foul. I am not looking for excuses for what I have done but I don't think there is any way that should have been a foul that led to the corner before.

"For me, maybe that corner should not have even happened. But, of course, I cannot change that and I am not accusing the referee of anything. I just don't think it was a foul, but I put my hands up and it was a silly mistake that cost us a point at the end."

Meanwhile, AS Roma midfielder Nemanja Matic is pleased with the progress his former club Manchester United have made this season, and he expects them to compete for the Premier League title next season.