Carrick on Rashford, injuries and 'tough start' at newly promoted Hull City

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has been speaking to the media before Saturday's Premier League game against Hull City at the MKM Stadium (kick-off 12:30 BST).

Here are the key lines from his news conference:

• Marcus Rashford returned "fantastically" to the side and the forward "looks strong, sharp and ready to play football". Carrick added that Rashford, who has not played a Premier League fixture for United since December 2024, is "enjoying his football" and could be an option "through the middle".
• In terms of injuries, Carrick confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt will not be involved against Hull, Benjamin Sesko "is back training" and Mason Mount is "very close" to returning to the matchday squad.
• Carrick added that Mount was one of United's "best players" during pre-season and "there are no dramas" surrounding the 27-year-old, who has endured injuries throughout his Red Devils career.
• United are "looking to strengthen the squad" as they continue to be linked with Brighton'sCarlos Baleba. Carrick added: "Certainly we're trying to make the most of the opportunities to finish the window stronger than we went into it."
• Carrick said the 2026-27 campaign is about "making the most of everything" as United look ahead to a season with Champions League football. Although he believes United can "achieve great things", being title contenders would be a "jump" in playing standards for his side.
• On facing newly promoted Hull City: "It is a tough start. I think a newly promoted team away from home is a tough, tough game. I have been involved in them in the past, so I am fully aware of what's at stake and what's coming at us on Saturday, and what we have 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."

Hit play above to hear more from Carrick or listen on BBC Sounds here

All the key lines from Thursday's Premier League news conferences

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