United reject Hargreaves claims

Manchester United have hit back against claims made by former midfielder Owen Hargreaves that his injury woes were badly handled by the club.

The England international stated the treatment he received during his time at Old Trafford hindered his career as he made just 26 starts in four years with the Red Devils.

Hargreaves was released in the summer by United but was signed on transfer deadline day by rivals Manchester City for whom he made a goalscoring return to action on Wednesday night in a 2-0 victory over Birmingham City in the Carling Cup.

The Red Devils have denied the allegations made by the midfielder stating he received the ‘best possible’ treatment by the club’s medical staff.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “Manchester United is disappointed with Owen’s remarks after the game on Wednesday.”

“The club gave him the best possible care for three years and is as disappointed as anyone he was not able to play a part in the team’s success at that time.”

“It has shared all the medical records with Manchester City and is comfortable with the actions taken by its medical staff at each step of his many attempts at rehabilitation.”

“United does not acknowledge any validity in the comments Owen is alleged to have made.”

“Manchester United has some of the best sports medical staff in world sport, who have made a significant contribution to United’s on-pitch success in recent seasons.”