Erik ten Hag thrilled as Man Utd debutant Joshua Zirkzee hits the ground running

Erik ten Hag was delighted to see Manchester United debutant Joshua Zirkzee hit the ground running and believes his match-winning introduction will provide a huge boost to his confidence.

United’s opening game of the Premier League campaign against Fulham was heading towards a scoreless draw as the clock wound down at an expectant Old Trafford.

But summer signing Zirkzee ensured United would begin the campaign with a victory as he stretched to smartly direct home fellow substitute Alejandro Garnacho’s cross in the 87th minute.

It was his first appearance for the Red Devils, having reported late for pre-season after going to Euro 2024 with the Netherlands and the former Bologna forward enjoyed a debut to cherish.

“It is very good for a striker coming into Manchester United and to score the winning goal in his first game,” Ten Hag said.

“I remember last season when Rasmus Hojlund in his first game scored a goal and we were all waiting on the halfway line, then VAR and after two minutes they came to the conclusion the ball was slightly over the line.

“Then it took long (for him to score his first Premier League goal) and he was so frustrated.

“For him, it’s very pleasing, very happy for him and that will encourage him. That will give him belief. For the fans, for everyone – it’s a very good start.”

Asked what made him want to sign Zirkzee, the United boss said: “There were more, he has some attributes we didn’t have.

“Straight (away) he showed it, but where he’s very good is his linking up, combinations.

“We have some good ball-playing offensive players, so they can take benefit from this.

“But what I wanted to say is he has to arrive in the box and to score goals, because the main attribute from a striker is score goals