Former player Joe Cole lauded the Manchester United manager following a hard-fought victory against Crystal Palace, acknowledging the pressure he’s faced when results haven’t met expectations.
Cole pointed out the significance of United’s current position, noting their competitiveness alongside teams like Arsenal, and suggesting that the praise directed towards Arsenal’s manager should be extended to the United boss as well.
A key element of United’s win, according to Cole, was their dominance from set pieces. The combination of precise deliveries from Bruno Fernandes and the aerial prowess of players like Harry Maguire and Casemiro proved decisive.
The manager himself attributed the victory to crucial “small details,” emphasizing the improved pace and intensity displayed by his team in the second half.
He observed a clear shift in momentum as Crystal Palace visibly tired, recognizing that a goal at that point would likely break their resistance. The team then successfully established control, dictating play in the opponent’s half.
While pleased with the overall control, the manager cautioned that they must analyze and address their performance in the first half to avoid repeating any early struggles.
The match also marked a significant moment for Joshua Zirkzee, who finally broke a 364-day Premier League goal drought, having last scored a brace against Everton in December of the previous year.
The manager emphasized that Zirkzee’s contribution extends beyond simply scoring goals, highlighting his improved ability to hold possession and influence the game’s flow. This newfound confidence, he believes, is vital for the team’s success.
Maintaining this level of performance in training, the manager stressed, will be crucial for Zirkzee to continue making a meaningful impact and solidifying his role within the squad.
