EPL: Carrick rejects ‘easy start’ talk over Man United fixtures

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

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

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The fixtures have prompted suggestions that United could make a strong start and carry the momentum that helped them finish third last season and contributed to Carrick being appointed on a permanent basis.

However, Carrick believes facing newly promoted sides, particularly away from home, presents a significant challenge.

As reported by BBC Sport on Thursday, the United boss said: “A newly promoted team away from home is a tough game.

“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.

“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.”

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

United will then welcome Ipswich for their first home league game of the season, with Carrick keen to prevent complacency despite the perception that the opening schedule is favourable.