Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim gave his take on Joshua Zirkzee's decision-making after Harry Maguire's shocking late miss against Liverpool.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Manchester United draw 2-2 at LiverpoolZirkzee passes to Maguire instead of shootingAmorim delivers verdict on striker's decision-makingFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?

In the dying moments of United's 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, substitute Zirkzee squared the ball to team-mate Maguire – instead of shooting – but the defender could only fire the ball over the bar from inside the box with the goal at his mercy. Sky Sports pundit Daniel Sturridge accused the Dutchman of "bobbling" the ball to Maguire but head coach Amorim defended the striker's actions.

AdvertisementWHAT RUBEN AMORIM SAID

When asked whether Zirkzee should have shot himself, Amorim told reporters: "For me, I think it was the perfect decision because he can shoot but he put the ball more in the centre. The ball was really slow for Harry to score but sometimes you cannot do it. But Josh made a good decision in my opinion."

Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Zirkzee has been an easy target for criticism this season after recording just four goals and two assists in 28 appearances since his £36 million (€42.5m/$46m) move from Bologna last summer. But Amorim and United captain Bruno Fernandes are defending the big forward in a bid to get the best out of him.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?

Amorim's United side, who are 13th in the Premier League, are next in action on January 12 away to Arsenal in the FA Cup third round.