Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer was thrown straight in at the deep end to make his debut in tough circumstances.
United had been leading 2-0 against Crystal Palace when Sabitzer was warming up, then a red card to Casemiro changed everything.
Palace pulled a goal back, and then United were left to frantically defend a 2-1 lead. Marcel Sabitzer was then introduced as a replacement for Antony.
The Austrian held his own in the final six minutes plus seven minutes of injury time, as United clung on for all three points.
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Sabitzer on his United debut
Sabitzer did not look overawed at all, he is an experienced midfielder who has played in the European Champions and the Champions League.
In very difficult circumstances as part of a 10-man team, Sabitzer helped United keep a surging Palace at bay, and hold on for all three points.
He posted to Instagram after the win, celebrating his debut. He wrote “My debut for United at Old Trafford. Wow! Thanks for your great support!”
Sabitzer received responses from new teammates Lisandro Martinez and Alejandro Garnacho, who both applauded his contribution.
With Casemiro suspended, Manchester United are going to really need Marcel Sabitzer over the next month.
Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek are both ruled out for the season, while Scott McTominay is also nursing a minor injury.
It doesn’t bear thinking about if United hadn’t signed Sabitzer. He could become a very popular player over the next few weeks. Clearly his teammates appreciate him already.
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