Amorim names one standout star who transformed Man Utd after the break vs Crystal Palace

Manchester United returned to winning ways at Selhurst Park with a dramatic 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League today.

Jean-Philippe Mateta gave the Eagles a deserved lead after Palace dominated the opening half-hour with relentless pressure.

However, second-half goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount helped United take home three key points.

Speaking after the game, United manager Ruben Amorim praised Joshua Zirkzee for his contributions in the second half.

He said (via Beanyman Sports): “It was very important but not just the goal, even the runs behind.

“In the first half he struggled in the duels. He won some duels in the second half. We improved a lot because of the quality of Joshua in the second half.

“It is important for him to understand that it is just not a goal.”

Confidence booster for Joshua Zirkzee

The Dutch international was handed his second start of the season due to injuries to Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha.

He was really struggling to have any positive impact on the game in the first half.

Amorim may even have considered replacing him at the break had he possessed another fit striker on the bench.

Crystal Palace’s defence overpowered him in the air and denied him space, leaving the United forward isolated and unable to link up effectively with his team-mates.

As Palace began to tire after their midweek European commitments, Zirkzee slowly grew into the game and found more joy in attacking areas.

The 24-year-old hauled United level with a moment of pure quality in the 54th minute.

Zirkzee controlled a free-kick from Fernandes superbly with his chest before smashing the ball past Dean Henderson from a razor-tight angle.

Zirkzee won both of his tackles but also lost possession 20 times, underlining how difficult the match was for him.

Despite his uneven performance, his decisive goal will give Amorim confidence to hand him another opportunity when United host West Ham United on Thursday evening.

Stats from Sofascore.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .