Not all of Ruben Amorim’s bold changes went according to plan as Manchester United lost 1-4 at the hands of Newcastle United in their Premier League game at St James’ Park on Sunday.
Altay Bayindir was handed the chance to start his first English top-flight game after Andre Onana’s huge errors against Olympique Lyonnais last Thursday.
Unfortunately, the Turkiye international did not fare much better as was culpable for the home side’s fourth of the evening.
Up front, Joshua Zirkzee started in place of Rasmus Hojlund, who was shambolic in the Europa League quarter-final first leg. Unfortunately, the Dutchman ended up picking up an injury, which might sideline him for the rest of the season.
Amass’ first start
Christian Eriksen was also afforded a rare start as Casemiro was rested for the second leg but the Dane struggled against the relentless pressing of the hosts.
The one change which did work was Harry Amass, who got his first start in the Premier League, in place of Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu.
The 18-year-old played 55 minutes and acquitted himself well in what is one of the most difficult away grounds to play at.
One play in particular stood out in the first half as he waltzed past his man before starting a counter-attack that did not bear fruit but showed what a confident young star he is.
He completed 85 per cent of his passes and had one shot off target. He completed one dribble while he won a 100 percent of his aerial duels and one ground duel (all stats via sofascore).
Amorim praise
The Academy wonderkid also made three clearances and the head coach was impressed with what he saw from the Carrington graduate.
“I think he did quite well,” Amorim was quoted as saying by Metro. “He caught a player that is really fast, he made his debut in maybe one of the hardest stadiums with a team that is really in a good moment.
“I think he did really well so he needs to continue and we need to help all these young kids to perform in a higher level.”
Amass will now be hoping for more chances in the weeks to come. He had made his United debut before the international break against Leicester City and became the 253rd Academy graduate to make his senior bow for the Red Devils.
Feature image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
