Albion's hopes of a lucrative FA Cup third round tie have been dashed after they were paired at home with Championship relegation rivals Coventry.
The Seagulls' former manager Micky Adams brings Coventry back to Withdean on January 7 following a 2-2 draw between the teams in the League earlier in the season.
Albion were looking for a repeat of last season's cash bonanza from a visit to Spurs to boost their spending power in the January transfer window.
Manager Mark McGhee admitted: "It's not a very exciting draw but we are at home. The Cup is slightly different from the League and it should generate a bit more of an atmosphere."
Adams' job is thought to be on the line at Coventry, although their relegation worries were eased by Saturday's 3-1 home win over fellow strugglers Plymouth.
Burton or Burscough, both non-league, have earned a dream draw against the superstars of Manchester United.
Burton, managed by Nigel Clough, were held to a goalless draw by Burscough on Saturdayand the sides now have an even greater incentive to win the replay
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