Neil Ryan’s youngsters knocked holders Chelsea out in the previous round, thanks to a thrilling 4-3 triumph, but are wary of the challenge posed by the Seagulls, who compete in a different division given their southern location and overcame West Ham United at the first hurdle.
The home side will hope to have virtually a full squad to select from and performed well in a first outing after the winter break, when beating Stoke City 4-1 at Clayton Wood last week.
The competition has always been hugely important for the club, with United still the record winners of the trophy with 10 (one clear of Chelsea with nine), but there is hope the boys can impress, despite the pressure and spotlight.