Lisandro Martinez hits out at Manchester United hierarchy following defeat, defends Michael Carrick

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick with Lisandro Martinez. Pic: Bradley Collyer/Press Association

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez has hit out at the club hierarchy following his sides 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.

The Argentinian lamented United's lack of recruitment in the summer, specifically putting the blame on technical director Jason Wilcox, while defending his under pressure manager Michael Carrick.

"It was really poor, really poor. I have to control myself a lot, but sometimes you have to see it is a reflection in the mirror of how our club is at the moment," said Martinez.

"We had a fantastic season last season, but we needed more players to compete because many, many teams bring in many players. Like Atletico. They have a fantastic team and they deserved to win.

"I expect more quality. I expected more (investment) 100 percent. I expect more from our technical director and I have to be honest.

"As players we have to do more, but it is important that you have a strong squad for these nights.

Martinez continued: "We created a base last season to build an amazing team. It's annoying and disappointing not to see my team come here and try to get a result.

The World Cup winner defended Michael Carrick who has been under scrutiny in recent weeks following a string of bad results that has included no wins in their last five and a worst start to a league season in 40 years.

"I don't think the manager (was backed) but he does his best. Every season is different. You can't say what you did last season because other teams know what you did and know every detail. If you don't change then the next season is a big problem.

"You can't keep changing, changing, changing the manager. What about other areas? I can't say more.

"Tonight it's easy to say 'the coach and the players.' We have to see other areas."

United face Como next in the Champions League and travel to Elland Road to face Leeds in the Premier League on Saturday.