Joshua Zirkzee must start for Manchester United against Newcastle - but there is a hidden catch

"Yes, he's doing a great job," said Ruben Amorim about Joshua Zirkzee on Thursday night.

Zirkzee thought he scored the matchwinner in the 88th minute for Manchester United against Lyon, only for the hosts to snatch a draw in the final seconds of injury time.

It was frustrating for United to concede again after scoring a late goal, but Zirkzee's impact from the bench was a positive and Amorim was asked about him in his post-match press conference.

Zirkzee was hooked in the first half against Newcastle in December and has shown immense character to bounce back. "A very important thing was the way the fans react after that incident," said Amorim.

"If Josh is not playing, every time he gets on the pitch or just warming up, our fans sing the Josh song. So that is massive, so it's 50-50. Fifty per cent part of the fans and 50 per cent of Josh."

Amorim was asked what he said to help Zirkzee back. "The same thing. I explained the situation because, as a former player, I wanted to hear some explanation sometimes from the coaches and I am really open that. I just want to help the team and then work with him," he said.

Amorim also praised Zirkzee for his improvement, and given the public embarrassment he was forced to deal with, there is a feeling he could become a cult hero at Old Trafford.

The Dutchman didn't sulk after his early substitution against Newcastle and he has found a home in the No.10 role, despite coming on as a striker and scoring against Lyon on Thursday.

Bruno Fernandes and Zirkzee combined brilliantly for that goal at the Groupama Stadium. Fernandes' cross was perfectly weighted and Zirkzee made no mistake from close range.

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