Joshua Zirkzee was handed his first start of the Premier League campaign in Manchester United’s 1-0 loss to Everton, which saw the Old Trafford side lose for the first time at home this season.
Ruben Amorim’s side were unable to break Jordan Pickford in goal despite playing over 75 minutes with 10 men after Idrissa Gueye’s red card for striking team-mate Michael Keane.
While United had chances throughout the contest, with Zirkzee testing the Everton goalkeeper with a few headed efforts towards the end, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s first-half stunner from distance proved decisive for the visitors.
After handing a start to Zirkzee amid injuries to Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, Amorim was asked for his verdict on the Dutchman’s performance after the final whistle.
Zirkzee Makes First Start of Season
Everton's Idrissa Gueye in action with Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee
Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee struggled against Everton. Credit: REUTERS/Phil Noble
Speaking to NBC Sports, Amorim only issued a three-word verdict on Zirkzee’s display on Monday:
“He did alright but I think everyone should play better tonight.”
Zirkzee attempted a total of three shots, two of which were on target, created one big chance, completed 15 of his 25 passes and won four of his six duels against Everton.
The 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes on Monday as United were short of options in attack, with both Sesko and Cunha dealing with setbacks.
Mason Mount, who came on in the second half, and 18-year-old prospect Shea Lacey were the only two attacking-minded players among the substitutes, with Zirkzee, Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo the starting front three.
Zirkzee made his sixth appearance of the season on Monday, with the Dutch forward yet to register a goal contribution in 180 minutes of game time.
Zirkzee Likely to Get More Minutes
manchester united bryan mbeumo
Following Zirkzee’s first start of the season, the Dutchman’s game time is only likely to increase when Mbeumo and Amad depart for the Africa Cup of Nations next month.
Amorim is also expected to fully integrate a pair of United’s academy prospects into the squad to boost his attacking options, with Lacey named in the senior squad for the first time against Everton.
Zirkzee enjoyed regular minutes under Amorim and Erik ten Hag last term. The Dutch forward registered seven goals and three assists in 49 appearances in all competitions, with five goal contributions taking place in the Premier League.
Cunha Could Return vs Palace
matheus cunha
Following the Everton defeat, Amorim revealed United could welcome Cunha back into the squad after the Brazilian was forced to miss the game with a knock.
United, who sit 10th in the Premier League after 12 games, next face Crystal Palace away on Sunday where they will be looking to end their four-game winless run against the Eagles.