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

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has dismissed the notion that his team have been given an advantageous start to the Premier League season, dismissing the claims as "pretty ridiculous". The Premier League opener sees United take on Championship play-off winners Hull City away on Saturday, followed by a home match against newly promoted Ipswich Town on 30 August.

These fixtures have fueled speculation that United could make a strong start, building on their third-place finish last season, which contributed to Carrick's permanent appointment. However, Carrick maintains that confronting newly promoted teams, especially away from home, will pose a considerable challenge. Carrick told BBC Sport, "A newly promoted team away from home is a tough game."

The United manager has emphasized that facing such teams presents a significant obstacle, insisting he will not entertain the idea of an easy start. Carrick expects his team to approach these crucial matches with the seriousness they deserve, and he has cautioned against any complacency despite the seemingly favorable fixture list.