Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim explained his reason for dropping a player as the Red Devils defeated Crystal Palace
Ruben Amorim
Ruben Amorim oversaw Manchester United's win against Crystal Palace
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Everything you need to know about Manchester United's victory over Crystal Palace
Amorim tweaks side: Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim made important tactical changes for the game against Crystal Palace, notably starting Mason Mount and Diogo Dalot. He opted for Mount's intensity to gain more possession and provide an attacking threat near the box.
Dorgu dropped: The team selection saw left-back Patrick Dorgu dropped, partly due to the manager sensing anxiety in his recent performances. Amorim stated that Dorgu was feeling the pressure of playing for the club, which impacted his composure when in possession of the ball.
Social media incident: Dorgu's situation was further complicated by a social media incident after he appeared to like an Instagram post criticising Amorim’s previous team selections. This may have contributed to Amorim's decision to drop him from the starting XI against Palace, though he did feature as a late substitute.
Palace take the lead: The first half of the match was largely dominated by Crystal Palace, who created multiple chances and were deservedly ahead at the break. Palace took the lead when Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a penalty in the 36th minute.
Penalty controversy: Mateta was forced to score twice after his initial successful spot-kick was disallowed for an accidental double-touch. Following a VAR review, the referee correctly ordered a retake, which Mateta then calmly converted for the opening goal.
Zirkzee's wait over: United staged a second-half comeback, with Joshua Zirkzee scoring the equaliser in the 54th minute. The powerful strike from a tight angle ended the Dutch striker’s lengthy goal drought.
United comeback victory: Mason Mount secured the victory nine minutes later, completing the 2-1 turnaround with a winning goal from a set-piece routine. His low 20-yard shot went straight through a gap in the Palace wall, helping United claim a crucial three points.
READ THE FULL STORY: Ruben Amorim explains why he dropped Man Utd star who 'ridiculed him on social media'