Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag backs Joshua Zirkzee and defends Bruno Fernandes

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Erik ten Hag is convinced Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee can become a prolific goalscorer for the club. Zirkzee joined United from Bologna for £36.5million in the summer and claimed the winning goal on his debut against Fulham.

However, the 23-year-old has not scored in any of his subsequent appearances for United and Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has billed Zirkzee as a "nine-and-a-half".

Zirkzee scored a modest 14 goals in 58 appearances for Bologna, 18 in 47 for Anderlecht and four in 17 for Bayern Munich. The Dutchman has started four times for United this term and has missed four big chances in the Premier League. READ MORE: Reaction to Garnacho cross sums up United in Twente draw READ MORE: United player ratings vs Twente When asked if he felt Zirkzee could become a potent striker, Ten Hag replied: "Yes, I do and sure, he is young, we see his great abilities. "He's a very good link-up player, as you say, he's creative, he's creating chances.

But he absolutely also he has his moments to watch the goal from the opposition. Yesterday was a great action he had (with his attempt at goal against Twente), a great finish, was a top save from the 'keeper. "But in that area he can definitely improve.