Erik ten Hag explains where Joshua Zirkzee can improve after scoring on debut against Fulham

Erik ten Hag is confident there is more to come from Joshua Zirkzee after the summer signing scored on his Manchester United debut.

Zirkzee made an immediate impact by coming off the bench to net the winner in United’s 1-0 victory over Fulham on Friday night, marking a positive start to Ten Hag’s season.

The 23-year-old striker, who joined from Bologna for £36 million, found the back of the net with a precise finish from Alejandro Garnacho’s cross in the 87th minute.

Zirkzee’s goal was crucial for United, who had struggled to break the deadlock until his introduction in the 61st minute, alongside Garnacho.

Prior to Zirkzee’s arrival, Bruno Fernandes had been denied twice by Bernd Leno, and Mason Mount missed a promising opportunity.

“Subs are always important and it was good to see in the first game that you bring a sub on and he scores the winner,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports.

“Everyone sees how important subs are and they have to be ready.”

Asked about Zirkzee’s playing style, Ten Hag added “Scoring for strikers is important.

“And he should be there where he was, to finish, to kill, but he has more qualities so he has to get the right balance.

“We have to work with him – I think that is one of the things I spoke with him about.

“He has to arrive in the box to get his finishes.

“Of course, we want him to link up also.

“For that attribute, we bought him and he has great qualities to make that link-up play.

“We have some great midfielders around him who we can make combinations so we can take control of the game.”

Roy Keane also praised Zirkzee, expressing his admiration for the striker’s skillful and composed finish.

“I thought it was a really good finish. Joshua Zirkzee’s link-up was neat and tidy,” Keane said.

“It was a lovely goal and for a new player to come to a club and score on your debut, it’s huge.”

Zirkzee beamed with a wide grin as he received the Player of the Match award.

“To win here in my first home game and to grab a goal, it couldn’t be better,” he said.

“I’ve been told [scoring at the Stretford End] is one of the best feelings at Man United.

“I’m so thankful and blessed I could experience it in my first game. It’s an amazing feeling.

“At the end of the day we got the win, that’s all we wanted. I can’t really explain the feeling, it’s just very nice.

“I feel very warm here.

“It’s a great team.

“We want to achieve something great.

“It’s been amazing, it’s been a dream actually.

“The manager told me to bring an energy and help the team as much as possible, just that.

“Manchester United is a huge club. You should always strive for the best.

“That includes day by day giving 100 per cent, that’s the plan. It’s all good vibes.”

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