EPL: Carrick rejects ‘easy start’ talk about Man United’s opening fixtures

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Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has rejected suggestions that his side have been handed a favourable start to the Premier League season, describing the claims as “pretty ridiculous”.

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United begin their campaign away to Championship play-off winners Hull on Saturday before hosting newly promoted Ipswich at Old Trafford on 30 August.

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The fixtures have led to suggestions that United could make a strong start and carry the winning momentum that helped them finish third last season and contributed to Carrick being appointed permanently.

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However, Carrick believes facing newly promoted teams, particularly away from home, will present a significant challenge.

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As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, Carrick said, “A newly promoted team away from home is a tough game,” Carrick said.

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“I’ve been involved in them in the past, so I’m fully aware of what’s coming at us on Saturday and what we’ve got to be ready for.

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“It’s not favourable. It’s an easy thing to throw out there but it’s pretty ridiculous. I’m not taking it that way at all.”

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Carrick is therefore expecting a demanding opening fixture at Hull and has urged his players to approach the game with the seriousness it deserves.

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United will then face Ipswich in their first home league game of the season, with Carrick keen to avoid any complacency despite the perception that the opening schedule is favourable.

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