Manchester United's Europa League defeat in Denmark was even more of a shock to Nick Powell, who spent his evening playing FIFA unaware his paymasters were in action.
Just 10 weeks ago, the 21-year-old came off the bench as Louis van Gaal's side were knocked out of the Champions League with a 3-2 defeat at Wolfsburg.
A further substitute appearance at United followed before Powell moved on loan to Hull, for whom he will make his debut in Saturday's FA Cup fifth-round tie at Arsenal.
It is clearly a case of out of sight out of mind for the midfielder, who - perhaps fortunately - forgot parent club United were in action against FC Midtjylland on Thursday and instead took to his games console.
"No, I completely forgot - I was playing FIFA, if I was honest," Powell said when asked if he watched the 2-1 loss in the Europa League last-32.
"I did read the reports and, I don't know, it's hard. They're under pressure because the gaffer has come out and said it's the best way to qualify for the Champions League next year.
"They've had so many injuries, with Wazza (Wayne Rooney) going out and David (de Gea) was injured before the game.
"There's no excuse - they should have have won, but that's just the way it is."
It was an unusual admission from Powell - one which former Manchester United defender Steve Bruce laughed off as "typical Nick".
The Hull boss is looking forward to seeing the attacking midfielder make his bow on Saturday and the player himself cannot wait to take to the Emirates Stadium turf.
Injuries and a lack of game-time has frustrated Powell in recent years, leading some to write off a player who does not even turn 22 until next month.
"I am massively determined to impress," he said, having recently overcome a hamstring complaint. "I haven't played a proper game in about two years.
"Don't get me wrong, I came on against Wolfsburg and Bournemouth but with 20 minutes here and there you can't showcase what you want to show everyone.
"I've not had a run of games in about two years, so if anything I am raring to just prove to people that I am not a lost cause, that I am coming back."
Powell last started a competitive fixture in August 2014, but is confident of proving his fitness at Hull after a difficult time at United and on loan at Leicester last term.
He wants to help the Tigers secure promotion from the Sky Bet Championship, but there is a chance of an early return to Old Trafford with a recall clause soon coming into effect.
"It's not my decision, but anything can happen in football," Powell said.
"The injury crisis we've had at United throughout the year has been horrendous for us. But, like I said, it's not my decision.
"I am here to prove to everyone else that I am fit and showcase myself, whether that's to play for (United) near the end of the season or keep fighting for promotion here with Hull."
Source: PA
