Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has lauded Altay Bayindir for his contributions to the team’s incredible FA Cup triumph over Arsenal at the Emirates.
Joshua Zirkzee netted the winning spot-kick after Bayindir had earlier denied Kai Havertz from 12 yards.
Bruno Fernandes gave United the lead in the second half with an emphatic finish, which capped off a clinical counter-attack. However, soon after the hour mark, United’s advantage was thrust into jeopardy after Diogo Dalot was given his marching orders for a second bookable offence.
Arsenal immediately capitalised as Gabriel Magalhaes found the back of the net. Both sides created chances but couldn’t score, necessitating a penalty shootout.
United ultimately prevailed, booking their spot in the fourth round, where they will come up against Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Leicester City.
In addition to saving Havertz’s penalty kick, Bayindir also denied Martin Odegaard from the spot-kick in the second half.
Additionally, the Turkey international produced a string of excellent saves that kept the result level. His heroics weren’t lost on Amorim, who waxed lyrical about him after the final whistle.
Amorim told BBC One about Bayindir, “He’s a good guy, he works a lot and life has beautiful things. A few weeks ago we were suffering through a difficult moment but now he’s like a hero for us.”
“All the players in this team who have the opportunity and they are lucky because they are playing for Manchester United.”
“It doesn’t matter if you play one game or 90 games, its always a joy to play for this club.”
On facing Leicester next in the FA Cup, Amorim stated, “I talked with him [Van Nistelrooy] before I came.”
“I’m looking forward to speak with him. He’s a class guy but we need to win. Maybe we’ll be divided because he loves this club but we need to win.”
Meanwhile, United return to Premier League action on Thursday when they host bottom-of-the-table Southampton on Thursday. The match kicks off at 20:00 GMT.
Featured image Julian Finney 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!
