Ryan was seldom tested by United's forwards, palming away a second-half long-range shot from Marcus Rashford.

Pascal Gross scored the winner for the Seagulls with a 57th minute header which just crossed the line.

The result means Brighton are safe from relegation in a significant achievement for the newly promoted club and Ryan, who was seen on Instagram celebrating with a glass of wine.

Brighton are now eight points clear of 18th-placed Southampton who have three games to play.

However one of Southampton's matches is against 17th-placed Swansea City - who are seven points behind the Seagulls - meaning Brighton are safe.

Ryan, who joined Brighton from Valencia in the off-season, said: “It’s been great playing here in the Premier League, with the challenges that come with it - playing against the best players and teams, and playing at some of the best stadiums in the world.

“To look back and have a year of Premier League experience under my belt - it’s a great time to be a footballer.”