Rangnick defends Man United players after Keane calls performance against City 'shameful'

Ralf Rangnick has defended his Manchester United players following scathing attacks from former captains Roy Keane and Gary Neville after Sunday's 4-1 defeat to Manchester City.

Keane accused United of "throwing in the towel" during Sunday's capitulation at the Etihad Stadium, while fellow Sky Sports pundit Neville labelled his old club a "disgrace".

Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions ran amok against their neighbours, regaining their six-point advantage over second-placed Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.

Kevin de Bruyne scored either side of a fine Jadon Sancho leveller in a frantic opening period that made way for a second-half cakewalk as City put their foot on the gas and United retreated into their shell.

Riyad Mahrez scored twice to wrap up a 4-1 win, but asked what he thought of the character and attitude of his players in the second half, interim United boss Rangnick said: “To be honest, I didn’t have the impression that they didn’t try.

“But it’s difficult against a team like Man City once you are 3-1 down [against] the best team in possession of the ball on the planet it’s difficult.

“I cannot blame anyone for not having tried and put effort into that game, but it was difficult after the third goal.”

Keane, who made more than 300 United appearances during a distinguished playing career, attacked several United players he accused of neglecting their defensive duties, and United's shortcomings - they are 22 points behind their neighbours in fifth place - were on display for all to see.

“I think the worst thing you could say about United is they did give up,” Keane told Sky Sports. “For a player in a derby, or any game, to give up, it’s unforgivable really.

“The beauty of top-level sport is there is no