Luke Shaw said Manchester United’s failure to prepare for set‑pieces cost them a 2‑0 opening‑day defeat to Hull City at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday. The Red Devils were beaten by first‑half goals from Semi Ajayi and Nobel Mendy.
Set‑Piece Shortcomings
Shaw told Stan Sports that United “knew Hull’s strengths” and that the hosts were dangerous from set‑pieces and wide play. He added that the team “did not defend well enough” and that the lack of preparation “cost us the three points”. The defender said the club “could have prepared better” knowing Hull’s “cutting edge” from set‑pieces. He finished by saying “no excuses” and that United should have been winning the game.
Rooney’s Critique
Former United star Wayne Rooney criticised Shaw on Match of the Day, calling his defending “schoolboy”. Rooney described Hull’s plan to get the ball in the box and win second balls, and said Shaw “drops in, five yards behind the back line”, making it “impossible to stop” the attackers. Rooney’s remarks added to the pressure on Shaw and the United defence.
Looking Ahead
Shaw and the United squad will look to recover in the next match against newly‑promoted Ipswich Town. The Tractor Boys opened their campaign with a late win over Sunderland. United will aim to avoid another defeat and regain momentum for the rest of the season.
The comments from Shaw and Rooney highlight the early season challenges United face as they try to establish a solid defensive foundation and improve set‑piece work. The club’s performance against Hull City will be a key point of focus as they prepare for the upcoming fixture against Ipswich Town.
