Joshua Zirkzee, a forward for Manchester United, apologized to the supporters in a statement for missing the game-winning penalty as Fulham advanced to the FA Cup quarterfinals with a 4-3 shootout victory.
After winning the trophy the previous season, United’s defense of it came to an end on Sunday when they were eliminated from the competition at Old Trafford.
Just before halftime, Calvin Bassey gave Fulham the lead by nodding them ahead, capitalizing on some pathetic set-piece defense from the home team.
The game edged into extra time and penalties when Bruno Fernandes’ spectacular finish from 16 yards out in the second half restored parity.
Victor Lindelof and Zirkzee were stopped from the spot-kick by Bernd Leno, and the Cottagers won.
When the final whistle blew, Zirkzee put his shirt over his face and started crying.
Many Fulham players were also seen consoling him.
A few hours after the loss, the Netherlands international posted on social media, saying, “I’m sorry to disappoint you today, Reds!”
“I appreciate your amazing support.”
He included a red heart emoji with his remark.
After being selected for the starting lineup, Zirkzee spent the whole game in one of the number 10 positions, just behind the striker.
Although he didn’t really threaten Fulham’s defense, there were some good aspects of his performance, such as some excellent passing, holding up of the ball, and link-up play.
Amorim maintained that Zirkzee is getting better wearing a United shirt in his post-match interview with the BBC. In the meanwhile, the Red Devils return to action on Thursday as they travel to San Sebastian to play Real Sociedad in the Europa League round of 16.