Manchester United defender Leny Yoro has admitted that his recent penalty kick against Arsenal in the FA Cup was the first of his career.
Yoro was one of five successful penalty takers in United’s clash against Arsenal at the Emirates last month.
The young Frenchman stepped up and demonstrated incredible calm and composure to send David Raya the wrong way.
In an interview with United’s official magazine, Yoro revealed that Ruben Amorim asked him if he was comfortable with taking a penalty.
Yoro said, “The coach asked if I wanted to shoot and I said yes, because why not? I’ve never shot a penalty in my life professionally, so I wanted to try and it went well, so that’s good.”
“In training before an FA Cup game, we shoot penalties. So I was a little bit confident but, without the pressure, it’s not the same at training. It’s just the question of choosing a good side and putting the ball in.”
“Honestly, I wasn’t under too much pressure as, for me, a penalty is down to a little bit of chance. Choosing a good side, for me, I take the ball and, if I score, it’s good.”
In addition to playing at the Emirates, Yoro has also featured at the Etihad and Anfield. The teenager emphasised that he enjoys the big occasions and is looking forward to even more high-stakes contests.
“These are big stadiums, I think every player wants to play here and it’s a big atmosphere against big teams.”
“This gives you a lot of experience in the Premier League and this is why, to play these types of games, that you come to the Prem. For me, it’s really good to play these types of games for my experience.”
Yoro has made 16 appearances for United since signing from Lille last summer. He is gradually becoming a key player under Amorim.
The defender and his teammates are back in action on Sunday when they go away to Tottenham Hotspur.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
