News in Brief: McCarthy reacts to criticism

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy has rejected criticism of his team selection following their 3-0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

McCarthy, known for his pragmatic approach to management, was accused of bringing the game in to disrepute and undermining the credibility of the Premier League by fielding a weakend.

"That's absolute tosh," retorted the former Republic of Ireland boss. "How can we have fielded a weekend team? The game was on a Tuesday night."

Despite being put straight on the true nature of the complaints, McCarthy was unrepentant.

"I completely disagree," he said. "Besides we are not the first team to do this. In 2007 Liverpool fielded a weakened team prior to their Champions League semi-final, Manchester United did a similar thing last season against Hull and Portsmouth have been selecting a woefully weak side all season.

"Now, no-one is asking for Portsmouth to be kicked out of the league... except perhaps themselves.

"No, we fielded a weak team on Tuesday and we will do it again at the weekend and so will Burnley. It is what we do."