Joshua Zirkzee had heard his name chanted to the Emirates Stadium rafters by the travelling Manchester United fans when he was introduced as a substitute. There has been a concerted effort by them to build a few bridges after what happened against Newcastle at the end of December: Zirkzee applauded off after his 33rd minute withdrawal, a shattering low.
When the full-time whistle went here, this FA Cup third round tie locked at 1-1, Zirkzee turned towards the United support to whip them up. The connection had been restored. And it simply had to be Zirkzee who stepped forward at the end of the shootout with the kick to win it.
More Stories
MP calls for trials of lifting drinking ban in English football stands
Hirst caps Ipswich fightback to spoil Everton’s Goodison farewell party
Vardy ends Leicester’s home drought to keep Southampton stuck on 11 points