Manchester United could see Joshua Zirkzee stay at the club despite interest from Italy after a positive boost for the Dutchman
Joshua Zirkzee has found a recent run of game time in Ruben Amorim’s squad as the Dutch striker has started three consecutive games for the first time this season, much to the relief of the fans, who still believe in the big striker.
Before this, speculation over a January move for Zirkzee was looming, with a return to the Serie A on the cards with the hopes of re-gaining his confidence and securing more game time up front.
The 24-year-old has had an up and down time so far at Manchester United, scoring on his debut against Fulham but struggling to match his goal tally back at Bologna.
The striker fell down the pecking order at United as he was held out of the team last season by Rasmus Hojlund and new summer signings this season Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
However, with injuries and AFCON, Zirkzee has seen a growth of game timed confidence, which could see him stay at Old Trafford.
Crystal Palace performance could be the revival of Zirkzee’s Man United minutes
Zirkzee played a crucial role in United’s 2-1 win away against a strong Crystal Palace side scoring the equaliser as he brought down a smart Bruno Fernandes free kick with his chest and struck his effort past Dean Henderson despite the tight angle.
Transfer correspondent, Pete O’Rourke revealed on the Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Amorim has backtracked on his stance on Zirkzee after the Dutchman impressed against Crystal Palace.
He stated, “He’s boosted his chances of getting more game time at United, obviously with that goal against Palace, really good finish in that game, got United back into the game and helped them go on and pick up three points in that one.
“He’ll be hoping now he can get a run in the side. That’s what he’s been looking for this season.
“He hasn’t had it because obviously United has been out and spent big on Mbeumo, Cunha and Sesko in the summer window.”
AFCON may open the door to the starting XI for Zirkzee
With United’s injury issue with Sesko and the African Cup of Nations looking to take both Amad and Mbeumo from the squad, there is a gap in the attacking third which needs filling.
This could be the perfect opportunity for Zirkzee to get a good run of form in the starting XI and prove to Amorim what he incapable of.
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United won’t face a ‘Big six’ side until mid January where they will host Man City at Old Trafford, so the upcoming run of games in the absence of many attackers is a huge chance for Zirkzee to regain his confidence.
If Zirkzee can continue to play a pivotal role in Amorim’s side, fans could expect the striker to remain at the club as United look to get back into the Champions League, where squad depth would be absolutely imperative to any success.
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