Premier League icon tells Man Utd flop Joshua Zirkzee to ‘man up’ after Newcastle sub

Joe Cole has told Manchester United flop Joshua Zirkzee to ‘man up’ after he stormed down the tunnel at Old Trafford on Monday evening against Newcastle

Joe Cole has told Manchester United flop Joshua Zirkzee to man up and take the flak that’s flying in his direction.

Zirkzee was left in tears after being hauled off inside 31 minutes during United’s 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle on Monday. He headed down the tunnel and into the dressing room, where he had to be coaxed back outside to sit on the bench with his team-mates.

United supporters jeered the Holland striker as he left the field, to be replaced by Kobbie Mainoo. But former England and Chelsea star Cole reckons the fans were right to jeer Zirkzee.

And Cole has told Zirkzee to stand up and show his character, in a bid to bounce back from the most humiliating moment of his career. Speaking to Paddy Power, Cole said: “Whether the fans were out of order for booing Joshua Zirkzee depends on your view on football.

“The fans pay their money, they work very hard in the week and get to express themselves at the weekend. As a footballer, you’re a professional, but first and foremost, you’re a performer.

“I wouldn’t do it, and I wouldn’t want my kids to do it, but it comes down to how the fans feel – and Zirkzee will need to deal with it. I understand the fans booing Zirkzee. I wouldn’t chastise them for that. For Zirkzee, it’s a harsh lesson – will he sink or swim?

“He’s in the corner bobbing and weaving now. If I was his family, I would tell him to work harder in training, keep up the positive body language, and when you get your chance, take it.”

To see the full Cole interview, go to: https://www.paddypower.com/football/english-permier-league