---
title: "Forward surprised at national call-up as minutes are scarce at Manchester United"
canonical: "https://readmanutd.com/2026/10/05/joshua-zirkzee-manchester-united-tottenham/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Shumail Sajid"
section: "Man Utd News"
published: "2026-10-05T13:40:10Z"
modified: "2026-10-05T13:40:10Z"
---

# Forward surprised at national call-up as minutes are scarce at Manchester United

**Joshua Zirkzee has not had many opportunities at Manchester United this season, but his latest international appearance gave Michael Carrick something to think about.**

[Joshua Zirkzee](https://readmanutd.com/squad/joshua-zirkzee/) received a late call-up to the Netherlands squad after Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey suffered an injury. Despite his lack of regular football at club level, the [Manchester United](https://readmanutd.com/tag/manchester-united/) forward quickly showed he was not short of confidence.

Coming off the bench, Zirkzee scored the winning goal in the Netherlands’ 2-1 Nations League victory over Serbia. It was only his second international goal, but the timing could hardly have been better.

The striker has also been linked with a move away from Old Trafford after Everton explored a deadline-day deal, although that move ultimately fell through. Zirkzee has made it clear that he wants to remain at United and fight for his place.

## **Zirkzee admits United situation is difficult**

Speaking to ESPN after the Serbia game, [as quoted by Manchester Evening News](https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/joshua-zirkzee-makes-surprise-manchester-34716349), Zirkzee admitted he was surprised to receive the call from the Netherlands given his current standing at United.

“I absolutely did not expect a call-up,” he said.

The forward also acknowledged that he is currently mainly being used as a substitute at club level.

“At the moment, that means I am mainly coming on as a substitute,” Zirkzee explained.

He knows the situation is not going to change without him forcing the issue.

“And in the end, I have to do something about that myself, even if it isn’t easy,” he added.

Zirkzee now has a positive international display behind him and a timely reminder that he can still influence games.

Tottenham visit United next after the break. Zirkzee’s performance will give [Michael Carrick](https://readmanutd.com/tag/michael-carrick/) another attacking decision to make. Zirkzee may not be first choice, but he has given himself a little more reason to be considered.