"It could have been all of us" - Manchester United star throws support behind Joshua Zirkzee following Ruben Amorim's bizarre call in Newcastle loss

Christian Eriksen has shared his thoughts on Manchester United fans booing Johsua Zirkzee during his substitution against Newcastle United on Monday. He said that the fans could've turned on all of the United players due to their performance but Zirkzee ended up being the unlucky one.

The Red Devils hosted Newcastle at Old Trafford in the Premier League on December 30. They found themselves trailing within four minutes as Alexander Isak scored via a header from close range. The Magpies doubled their lead 15 minutes later as Joelington found the back of the net.

As the visitors piled on the pressure, Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim decided to substitute Zirkzee with Kobbie Mainoo. As soon as the announcement was made in the stadium, the United fans cheered and booed towards the Dutchman, who went straight into the tunnel.

After the game, Christian Eriksen was asked about the incident and he said (via Tribal Football):

"They could have turned against everyone in the first half. Of course, I think it's a shame for Josh that it was him who came to look like the black sheep that was replaced in the first half that way, but it could have been all of us.

"It's a shame for Josh, as I said. He is a good guy and hopefully he gets the support he needs from both us and the fans, and then he'll probably come back again."

Manchester United signed Zirkzee from Bologna for a reported fee of €42.5 million in the summer. He's scored four goals and provided two assists in 27 games across competitions.

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Manchester United suffer yet another defeat, edge closer to relegation than top 4

The Red Devils have suffered six defeats in their last eight games across competitions, winning the other two games. They came into the Newcastle clash on Monday on the back of three straight defeats against Tottenham Hotspur, Bournemouth, and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Manchester United had the worst start they could've imagined as Lewis Hall delivered a perfect cross for Alexander Isak to head it in. Newcastle then scored a similar goal 15 minutes later as this time Joelington scored from an Anthony Gordon cross. The hosts put up some pressure in the second half but couldn't break the Magpies down.

Manchester United are now 14th in the Premier League table, seven points above the relegation zone and 13 points behind top four. They will next face rivals and league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, January 5.