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Roy Keane reacts to Joshua Zirkzee’s performance in Manchester United’s 1-0 win vs Fulham

Manchester United summer signing Joshua Zirkzee was the hero last night, coming off the bench to grab a late winner in their Premier League opener against Fulham at Old Trafford.

The Netherlands international striker made his debut by replacing Mason Mount in the 61st minute, and he turned in Alejandro Garnacho’s cross to give the hosts the lead with three minutes remaining.

It was a huge relief for Man United as they could have drawn or lost the game after Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes missed chances to put their side into the lead.

Former Red Devils captain Roy Keane was impressed with Zirkzee, showering praise on him after the game on Sky Sports.

“United need to punish teams more, but hopefully that will come,” he said.

“It was a beautiful finish from Zirkzee. To score on your debut at your new club is huge.”

With Denmark international striker Rasmus Hojlund injured, Man United manager Erik ten Hag opted to start the game with Fernandes as his number nine.

The Portuguese played in the position against Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May and the Community Shield last weekend, impressing on both occasions.

He put in a fair performance against Fulham but it was Zirkzee who came on to get the job done and prove to the manager that he is ready.

The 23-year-old forward ended last season with 12 goals in 37 games for Bologna before completing a £36.5 million move to Man United in July, signing a five-year contract.

He will now hope to get more minutes when the Red Devils visit Brighton and Hove Albion in their second league game next Saturday.