‘He has more qualities’ – Ten Hag beaming with Zirkzee after memorable debut

Manchester United opened their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win over Fulham thanks to a goal from new signing Joshua Zirkzee.

The Netherlands striker came off the bench to score in his debut against the Cottagers, with what was a sublime strike three minutes from stoppage time.

Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount were both denied prior to Zirkzee’s goal by Bernd Leno – and United appeared to be heading for a frustrating draw – until the Dutch forward made his impact.

The £36m signing from Bologna converted Alejandro Garnacho’s cross to give United a late win with what will go down as the first goal of the 2024/25 season. It didn’t matter that Garnacho wasted a glorious chance later on.

Erik ten Hag was happy with Zirkzee after the match. He told Sky Sports: “Scoring for a striker is important and he should be where he was, but he has more qualities and he has to get the right balance – he has to be arriving in the box to get the finishes, but we also want him to link up. We have some great midfielders around him to make up combinations.

“First game, but it is good to strengthen the belief. I have seen many spaces where we have to improve but that is normal.”

“He has more qualities” ✨

Erik ten Hag on Joshua Zirkzee 🔊 pic.twitter.com/NmIqBrKPzq

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 16, 2024

Footage courtesy of Sky Sports

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