Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has slammed Sheffield United's bench for a perceived lack of respect in Tuesday's 1-0 League Cup defeat at Bramall Lane.

Mark McNulty was the hero after scoring the winning goal on 63 minutes to help the Sheffield side move into the semi-final stage of the competition.

Shortly after the strike United coach Chris Morgan was sent to the stands for a verbal spat, with Koeman refusing to shake Blades manager Nigel Clough's hand at full time.

Asked why he snubbed the customary handshake, the Dutchman told Sky Sports News: "Because they showed, during 95 minutes, no respect to me, no respect to the bench of Southampton, and no respect to the fourth referee.

"I had to make a statement. If coaches, people, act like this, then I am afraid for the future. I don't tell more about that. No respect is no respect. Shouting. I don't use that word. It's about four letters."

The result marked Southampton's fifth successive defeat in all competitions.