"Ridiculous": Man United boss fumes at reporter after surprise loss to Hull City

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- Manchester United suffered a shock 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Hull City at the MKM Stadium on Saturday

- Manager Michael Carrick clashed with a reporter during his post-match interview over claims his players lacked fight

- Carrick pointed to two set-piece goals as the decisive factor, dismissing suggestions of a mental or attitude problem

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has pushed back sharply against accusations that his squad showed a lack of fight during Saturday's 2-0 Premier League defeat to newly-promoted Hull City at the MKM Stadium.

First-half goals from Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy were enough to give Hull a commanding victory, continuing what has been a wretched start to the season for United.

Carrick Clashes With Reporter

The tension spilt over in Carrick's post-match interview with Viaplay, when former professional Jan Aage Fjortoft put it to the United manager that his players appeared to lack passion and urgency in the opening 45 minutes.

The suggestion visibly irritated Carrick, who wasted no time mounting a defence of his squad's commitment.

"Oh come on, that's ridiculous. You played football, you understand. That's a ridiculous thing to say. Just because you get beat doesn't mean you don't care about it. Their two goals came from set plays. Other than that, we had opportunities. That was where the game was. I don't think it was passion or anything to do with that. I think it was just their moments that made the difference in the game," Carrick said.

The defeat leaves United with serious questions to answer at the start of their Premier League campaign, having been undone by a side who arrived in the top flight as one of the division's promoted teams.

Their next game is against another newly promoted side, Ipswich Town, who beat Sunderland in their opening game.

Man United want Carlos Baleba

We also highlighted facts about Manchester United's pursuit of Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, who appears set to join the club this summer.

As United aims to revitalise their midfield, the arrival of Baleba could be crucial in filling the gap left by struggling players, potentially turning their fortunes around after a disappointing start to the season.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.