Michael Carrick has rejected suggestions that Manchester United’s 2-0 opening-day defeat at Hull exposed a lack of leadership or commitment, calling such criticism “lazy and easy”. He argued that a single loss should not prompt sweeping conclusions about the team, captain Bruno Fernandes or the wider squad, and said United must instead analyse the specific details behind the performance.

Carrick said conceding from two set plays changed the match and stressed that results can be influenced by many factors beyond effort or passion. United host Ipswich on Sunday without £70m signing Carlos Baleba, whose ankle injury could keep him out for at least three weeks and potentially delay his debut until 10 October; Carrick said the club had been patient to secure a player they believe fits the group.