"This was one of those games the lads really wanted to do their best to win, but we did not have any tempo or inspiration early in the game," United's assistant boss said after the 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.
"We were perhaps too anxious at the start and that combined with a Manchester City side who showed good movement and were strong on the counter-attack.
"I think the attitude of City and the way we started the game was what influenced the result."