Man United fans’ response to Joshua Zirkzee performance after penalty miss speaks volumes

Man United fans’ response to Joshua Zirkzee performance after penalty miss speaks volumes

Manchester United supporters could be heard singing the name of Joshua Zirzkee after the Dutchman missed the final penalty that sent the Red Devils crashing out of the FA Cup.

United came from behind at Old Trafford as Bruno Fernandes’ goal cancelled out Calvin Bassey’s first-half effort. Neither side could find a way through however with extra-time ending goalless before spotkicks were required to settle the score.

Victor Lindelof was the first to miss from 12 yards as United’s fourth penalty taker of the evening. Antonee Robinson netted for the Cottagers to ensure Zirkzee was left with the pressure of scoring to ensure Fulham were required to take their fifth penalty.

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The Dutch forward was unable to extend United’s defence of the trophy however, as Bernd Leno made his second save to ensure Marco Silva’s side progressed. Zirkzee was the hero as United prevailed against Arsenal earlier in the competition but the 23-year-old faced the ignominy of missing at the crucial moment on this occasion.

Zirkzee was inconsolable following his miss. The ex-Bologna star bent towards the floor, put his head in his hands, and covered his face with his shirts as coach and team-mates attempted to comfort him.

United’s fans also leant their support. They could be heard singing his name in the aftermath in contrast to more unsavoury scenes earlier in the season.

Joshua Zirkzee and Ruben Amorim
Joshua Zirkzee is consoled by Ruben Amorim ( Image: James Gill – Danehouse)
In December, Zirkzee was replaced after 33 minutes against Newcastle United at Old Trafford. The United faithful cheered on that occasion and left Zirkzee in tears in the tunnel after he made his way off the pitch.

When Zirkzee’s number was raised and cheers started, Gary Neville said on commentary: “I have to feel sorry for him. He has basically been cheered off by his own fans and that is brutal. I’ve not seen that too many times at Old Trafford. It’s a brutal one for him. I don’t suspect he went back [down the tunnel] to get a Lucozade.”

Defeat to Fulham sees United exit the FA Cup the earliest they have as holders since 1996/97, when they were knocked out by Wimbledon in the fourth round.

Fulham boss Silva commended his side’s ability from the spot. “They did it perfectly, with great composure from all of them,” he said at full-time.

“They are with a smile on their faces. Fulham fans are really proud of their team. We are there.”