Joshua Zirkzee is facing increasing pressure to perform after a difficult start to his Manchester United career.
Since joining from Bologna in the summer, Zirkzee has managed only six goal contributions in 27 matches.
In his latest outing, a substitution in the 32nd minute sparked cheers from sections of United fans, adding to the young forward’s frustration.
Ruben Amorim replaced Zirkzee with Kobbie Mainoo, and while Zirkzee made his way down the tunnel.
Teammate Alejandro Garnacho encouraged fans to support him rather than boo or sarcastically clap.
Despite Zirkzee’s early departure, United went on to lose 2-0 to Newcastle.
The Red Devils rarely threatened the opposition’s goal onwards.
A former United player has had his say on the matter, pinning the blame on the manager.
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Brian McClair who made 471 appearances for the club, explained that the issue isn’t solely Zirkzee’s fault.
McClair said: “None of the players were signed by the current coach.
“So he’s working out what they are capable of,” McClair told The Athletic.
McClair added that Zirkzee’s physique leads some fans to expect him to play a different role.
“People look at Zirkzee and assume, because of his physique, that he’s a different type of player to what he is,” McClair explained.
“He’s a skilful No 10 who links play, not a big old-style centre-forward.”
The coach, Amorim, has asked Zirkzee to play a different role than he’s used to.
McClair said, “The coach has created the situation because he’s asking Zirkzee to play in a different position and formation.”
Zirkzee has often been likened to be a second striker, operating behind a physical box presence.
However, the striker has found himself being relied upon as the main source of goals.
McClair also pointed to the years of frustration United fans have endured.
“Secondly, you have years of frustration and false promises to fans,” he added.
“It led to United fans doing what they don’t usually do and getting on a player’s back.”
Time and time again, McClair emphasised, United have made the wrong signings, and it’s to detriment of the players.
“It’s wrong to blame the player for that,” he said.
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