Zirkzee reveals what helped him through ‘frustrating’ 17-game dry spell

Joshua Zirkzee has thanked his Manchester United teammates for helping him through a 'frustrating' 17-match goal drought before scoring twice in Sunday's win over Everton at Old Trafford.

Zirkzee enjoyed a dream start at United after a £36.5million summer transfer from Bologna, scoring the winning goal on his debut against Fulham in August.

But the Dutchman has struggled since then, becoming a bit player during the final months of Erik ten Hag's reign.

The arrival of replacement Ruben Amorim has given Zirkzee a fresh start and he grabbed the opportunity with both hands after starting at striker in the 4-0 win over Everton.

The 23-year-old shared the moment with his teammates, saying: 'Obviously the longer it takes to get back on the scoresheet, the more frustrating it becomes. But I have some great teammates who always hold my head up when I don't hold them up. They also helped me very well during that time. Today they were happy for me too.

'Hard times, great strong people and a strong bond with people. I think that's what's happening now. The most important thing is that we keep going.'

Zirkzee was not seen as a natural number 9 when United signed him in the summer, but he relished the central role, with Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes playing either side in Amorim's 3-4-3 formation.

'There are some small differences. I went out there and tried to do what he asked and expected me to do,” Zirkzee added.

'I felt comfortable in the role I was in. Of course the goals also help for a striker. We all came out with the confidence that we were going to win this match.

“A win is exactly what these fans deserved, so it's a great day. There were a few moments where things could have turned out differently, but I think we stayed strong as a team and 4-0 was a good result.'

Fernandes set up Zirkzee's first goal after Amad stole the ball from Jarrad Branthwaite, and Amad got an assist for the second after winning a tackle with James Tarkowski.

“It takes some time to have connections on a team when you're new,” Zirkzee said. 'With Amad it's very easy to play with him. I wish I could explain it to you. It's easy. He always gives you a choice, that comes naturally.'