Online Reporter
MICHAEL Carrick got on the front foot to dismiss the first of a couple of themes that have run through Manchester United’s build-up to the new season.
“Ridiculous” was how Carrick assessed the feeling that his side have been given a favourable start to the campaign.
A trip to play-off winners Hull today is followed by an Old Trafford encounter with another newly promoted side, Ipswich.
“It’s not favourable,” said Carrick. “It’s an easy thing to throw out there, but it’s pretty ridiculous.
“It’s a tough start, both teams. I am not getting past Saturday. I’m fully aware of what’s coming at us.”
Carrick also addressed the other issue: the agitation among United’s fanbase about the lack of further signings since Youri Tielemans’ £35 million move from Aston Villa was completed on July 14.
Talks are continuing with Brighton over Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba, but a deal is still to be agreed.
It is widely accepted that relying on Luke Shaw, the club’s only orthodox left-back, to retain his fitness as he did last season would be a huge gamble.
“We are looking to strengthen the squad,” said Carrick. “We are certainly working towards that.”
As it turns out, historically, United supporters really shouldn’t be surprised at having to wait for transfer business to be concluded, and if they look back at past campaigns, they might be advised to temper expectations around early-season results as well.
Only twice before in the English Premier League era have Manchester United’s opening two fixtures been against newly promoted sides.
On neither occasion did Sir Alex Ferguson’s side begin with two victories.
English Premiership fixtures
Today (all at 4pm unless otherwise stated): Hull v Manchester United (1:30pm); Ipswich Town v Sunderland; Everton v Crystal Palace; Nottingham Forest v Leeds United; Brentford v Tottenham Hotspur (6:30pm)
Tomorrow: Manchester City v Bournemouth (3pm); Brighton v Aston Villa (3pm); Newcastle v Liverpool (5:30pm)
Monday: Fulham v Chelsea (9pm) – BBC Sport.
