Zirkzee Answers Critics With Decisive Strike
Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee delivered a perfect response to his doubters by scoring a crucial equaliser in his side's 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The Dutchman's first goal of the season came just hours after former Premier League striker Troy Deeney had launched a scathing criticism of his performances.
Deeney's Stinging Criticism
Earlier on Thursday, Deeney had told talkSPORT that Zirkzee's performances were "embarrassing" and claimed he could do better himself despite being two years retired. "It's really poor again from Zirkzee," Deeney stated. "I've been retired for two years - Man United give me six weeks and a third of what he's doing and I'm probably sure I can do better. He just looks like a lost soul."
The Perfect Response
Zirkzee answered in the best way possible on 54 minutes at Selhurst Park. The striker latched onto a Bruno Fernandes free-kick, showed excellent control before firing a powerful shot across Dean Henderson into the far corner. The goal cancelled out Jean-Philippe Mateta's first-half penalty and paved the way for Mason Mount to score the winner later in the match.
Deeney himself admitted to being stunned by the quality of Zirkzee's finish, telling talkSPORT: "He's got no right to score that. I'm questioning the 'keeper, but it's a wonderful finish. We've been giving him grief, and rightly so, but that's a massive moment in his career. I'm flabbergasted that he's done that."
Manager's Praise and Table Position
United manager Ruben Amorim praised Zirkzee's response after a difficult first half, highlighting the importance of the strike for both player and team. "It's so important for the strikers to score goals," Amorim said. "He's not playing many minutes but the way he responds in the second-half is so important. The goal is really important for us and for him."
The three points lifted Manchester United to seventh in the Premier League table, providing the perfect response to their disappointing home defeat against Everton earlier in the week. The victory marks a significant turnaround for Amorim's side as they continue their push up the table.
