Zirkzee named Man of the Match on debut

Friday 16 August 2024 23:31

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has been named our Man of the Match following his goalscoring debut in the 1-0 win over Fulham.

The Netherlands international forward, who joined the club from Bologna earlier this summer, came off the bench just after the hour mark and went on to make the decisive contribution in our first Premier League game of the new season. 

With the game goalless in the 87th minute, Zirkzee superbly converted Alejandro Garnacho's low cross from the right to earn United three points at the end of a closely contested clash with the Cottagers.

Who gets your Man-of-the-Match vote on opening night?poll

Who gets your Man-of-the-Match vote on opening night?

Our new no.11 scooped exactly 33 per cent of the votes from supporters on ManUtd.com and in the United App, which was enough to come out on top in our poll, following his dream moment in front of the Stretford End.

Speaking to MUTV's Liam Bradford after the final whistle, Zirkzee attempted to sum up his emotions, saying: “Scoring, winning in front of the Stretford End is the perfect debut so I’m very thankful.

“It’s an amazing feeling, hopefully it’s the first of many. I can’t really describe it, it’s a bit difficult, but it’s great.”

While Joshua was the natural fans' favourite on the evening, there was recognition from supporters for several of Ten Hag's Reds, for their efforts in the opening-night win. 

Casemiro continued his strong form from pre-season and the Community Shield in midfield, and that was recognised by voters, as the Brazilian came in second behind Zirkzee with 19 per cent of all picks. 

Noussair Mazraoui, making his Reds bow after joining from Bayern Munich earlier this week, looked at home at right-back, and finished third in our poll as a result.

Bruno Fernandes (11%) and Harry Maguire (10%) also received a double-digit share of the choices, for their contributions to the win over Fulham. Thank you to everyone who voted.

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