Senne Lammens finally made his debut for Manchester United in the 2-0 win over Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday.
The Red Devils opened the scoring after eight minutes when Mason Mount converted Bryan Mbeumo’s pass with a composed finish.
Benjamin Sesko doubled the lead from close range after the half-hour mark.
The hosts controlled the game in the second half to seal a comfortable victory and climb to ninth in the Premier League table.
United’s victory owed much to Lammens’ brilliance in goal.
The 23-year-old showed his agility by making a low stop to deny Granit Xhaka’s long-range shot. He then thwarted Chemsdine Talbi late on.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, manager Ruben Amorim explained why it took so long for Lammens to make his debut.
He said: “First of all, when Senne arrived here, Altay (Bayandir) was playing. Then you could feel it, he needed to adapt. It was a new country – new training.
“The pressure you guys [the media] put on the goalkeeper is massive, so it was a little preparation for him to be ready to start his first game.
“But it is just one game, and he needs to work. He needs to be prepared, because in our club things are really hard.
“He did well and was comfortable during the game. That’s a really good sign.”
United fans had been calling for Amorim to start Lammens due to Bayindir’s struggles between the sticks.
The 23-year-old repaid the faith with an assured display. He made three total saves and also claimed two high balls with authority.
Lammens had 52 touches in the game, won all of his aerial duels and made a clearance.
The Belgian is likely to keep his starting spot when United visit Liverpool following the international break.
Stats from Sofascore.
