Gary Neville has defended Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho against accusations that he has fallen out with his players.

The Portuguese and his players came under criticism after losing 3-2 to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League on Sunday, which saw the Red Devils go 2-0 down after 30 minutes.

However, United legend Neville believes that Mourinho still has the backing of his players and will be able to motivate them ahead of their game against Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.

"I speak to people at the club and I think that there is a good spirit in the dressing room. Today (Sunday) is a poor performance," he said on his podcast for Sky Sports News.

"This idea...he's not lost the players. I don't think for one minute he's lost the players so I think it would be wrong to suggest that about this game.

"I think he will leave the players because what he needs now is get them right for a week on Monday, a big game against Tottenham, and it is only the second game of the season."

The ex-Chelsea manager was reportedly disappointed with his board for refusing to provide him with the funds to acquire a centre-back in the summer transfer window.