Former Sir Alex Ferguson assistant Rene Meulensteen believes Joshua Zirkzee will start for the Red Devils’ Premier League clash with Brighton this weekend.

    Zirkzee, who United signed in a deal worth £36.54m, was absent from the pre-season tour this summer after representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024.

The Netherlands international made his debut for the Red Devils as a substitute and scored in the 1-0 win over Fulham last week, much to the delight of the fans.

However, the former Bologna man climbed off the bench in the second half and scored the winner for United on his debut appearance.

    While Erik ten Hag decided to play Bruno Fernandes as a false nine in the first leg, Meulensteen believes Serkse will start against Brighton.

    “The difference with Serkze is he’s not a real centre-forward, a real No. 9,” Rene said. “He’s still adapting to playing for Manchester United, to playing in the Premier League every week.”

    “The expectations are different. He is a big boy but for a big boy he’s agile. He’s good at dropping in and linking up, which he does, but he’s good at getting forward. He’s brilliant in the box.”

    “I would rather have him as a regular No.9 than have Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount or Marcus Rashford playing สมัคร ufabet there. I wouldn’t be surprised if he plays this weekend.”