Joshua Zirkzee on Friday made himself a Manchester United hero on his debut with a late winner to beat Fulham 1-0 in the opening match of the Premier League season.
Zirkzee, lacking match fitness after his ￡36.5 million pound (US$47 million) move from Bologna last month, came on only for the final half hour.
The Dutch international saved the Red Devils from a frustrating evening at Old Trafford when he poked in Alejandro Garnacho’s cross on 87 minutes.
Photo: AFP
“To win here in my first home game and to grab a goal, it couldn’t be better,” Zirkzee said. “I’ve been told [scoring at the Stretford End] is one of the best feelings at Manchester United. I’m so thankful and blessed I could experience it in my first game. It’s an amazing feeling.”
United boss Erik ten Hag survived at the end of last season, despite finishing eighth in the Premier League, thanks to winning the FA Cup.
Whether that shock victory over rivals and English champions Manchester City in May could be a springboard remains to be seen after a performance that was eerily reminiscent of many last season.
“I have seen many spaces where we have to improve, but that is normal,” Ten Hag said. “It [the win] is good to strengthen the belief.”
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