Manchester United star hails shootout hero Bayindir following FA Cup triumph

Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes praised second-choice goalkeeper Altay Bayindir for his penalty shootout heroics in the Red Devils’ FA Cup clash with Arsenal on Sunday, Soccernet.football reports.

Bayindir made just his fifth competitive appearance for Manchester United since joining from Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce in the summer of 2023.

The Turkey international seized his opportunity, saving Martin Odegaard’s second-half penalty and denying Kai Havertz in the shootout as Manchester United triumphed 5-3 after a 1-1 draw at the Emirates.

Speaking after the game, Fernandes, who put United in front with a superb one-time effort, was quick to commend his teammate for his outstanding performance.

“It’s a big moment for him, the first penalty and another save here, and we are really happy for him,” the Man United skipper told BBC Sport.

“It’s tough to be second goalkeeper, he came here to play. Whenever he gets his chance, he’s top class for us, he’s top class in training, he’s always available for everyone and he truly deserves this moment.”

Meanwhile, Bayindir, the hero of the night, emphasized the importance of always being prepared to seize any opportunity that comes his way.

“I just help my team,” he said. “I am working every day, I am patient. I just want to help this great team. I want to make everyone happy for this great club. I’m working here every day.

“If you are not playing, it doesn’t matter. You have to be ready every minute, every second. If you are a Man Utd player, you have to always be ready.”

On Amorim, he added: “We love him, and he’s always trying to do his best. He has a very good relationship with the players, and we are trusting him, he is trusting us. We are fighting together.”