“It was tough on me to do that” - Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim explains reason for bizarre Joshua Zirkzee decision in Newcastle defeat

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim revealed that he needed to take off Joshua Zirkzee in the first half vs Newcastle United to help his side control the midfield. He said the substitution was made with the team in mind and added that they would continue to support the Dutchman.

Speaking to the media after the loss to Newcastle United, Amorim stated that his side needed another midfielder on the pitch to control the match. He believed that taking off Zirkzee for Kobbie Mainoo was the ideal solution at that time and said (via GOAL):

"You have to think about the team. The player is suffering during the game. We needed another midfielder. It was tough on me to do that, I talked with Joshua on that. I'm always thinking about the team. At that moment it was important for him to come out. I know that Josh is a really good guy. When he went to the tunnel, I can understand that some guys can be in a bad way but he is a really good lad. It is life, and we will support Josh and continue. Newcastle were better than Manchester United, they weren't better than Josh."

Alexander Isak and Joelinton scored in the first half for Newcastle United as Manchester United lost for the fourth time in five Premier League matches.

Gary Neville feels sorry for Joshua Zirkzee after Manchester United substitution

Gary Neville was on Sky Sports when Manchester United were losing 2-0 against Newcastle United. Speaking immediately after the substitution took place, the former defender claimed that he felt sorry for the Dutchman as the change was cheered on by the Manchester United fans. He said:

"I actually feel sorry for him, I really do. I know he's earning a lot of money here, but there is a human being in there that's basically been cheered off by his own fans and that is brutal. I've not seen that too many times at Old Trafford in the 43 years I've been coming here, if at all, actually. He's had enough and I actually don't blame him. It's massive embarrassment. He's not played well, let's be clear. But they've all been absolutely awful."

Zirkzee was seen heading down the tunnel right after he was taken off. However, he returned to the bench during the second half, but the substitution did not change the scoreline for the Red Devils as they lost 2-0.