Michael Carrick defends Manchester United squad after Hull City defeat | OneFootball

Michael Carrick has defended his Manchester United players after accusations they lacked passion in the opening 2-0 defeat at Hull City. According to Goal.com, he dismissed that narrative as focus turns to Ipswich Town at Old Trafford on Sunday.

United started poorly and criticism of desire followed. Carrick rejected claims the team did not try, saying results hinge on more than effort.

"Teams lose games and win games, and it's not just because you try or you don't try," Carrick said. "I don't have to give you the total reason, because we know what we're trying to improve on."

"I think it's so easy and lazy to just say 'team loses a game, everything's wrong'." "This is wrong, this is wrong, not trying enough, not enough passion."

Responding to adversity was a feature last season, with wins immediately after defeats to Leeds and Newcastle. "I think success comes from how well you deal with setbacks in the end," he said.

He added that the squad have reset in training before their first home match. "We had a setback last week and we want to get back to playing well and winning football matches. It's another tough game again."

United will be without Carlos Baleba for up to three weeks with an ankle problem, while Amad Diallo is also out. Ipswich arrive buoyed by a 2-1 win over Sunderland, and Carrick's average against newly promoted sides stands at 0.33 points per game. Securing three points is vital to restore morale before the international break.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”