Man United star faces shock ban after controversial Southampton moment spotted in new footage

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Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee will be lucky to escape a considerable ban after his crude celebration during Thursday night's late comeback win over Southampton. According to former Premier League referee Keith Hackett, the 23-year-old is facing at least a three-match suspension.

Zirkzee, who was brought on by Ruben Amorim shortly into the second-half, had an impressive display from the bench but it was Amad who stole the headlines. His 12-minute hat-trick saved United from an embarrassing defeat to the league's worst side.

Saints had taken the lead before the break and had multiple chances to extend their lead. United fought back but relied on an inspired moment of magic from Amad to turn things around. He completed a remarkable treble in injury time to cap a fine and much-needed victory for Amorim.

The win makes it three unbeaten in all competitions this week, the first time Amorim managed that since his going unbeaten in his opening three games. The result still leaves United stranded in the bottom half and for Zirkzee, after enjoying a brilliant day away to Arsenal last weekend, his reaction to Amad's second goal could land him in big trouble.

Joining in the wild celebrations, Zirkzee ran over to join Amad and his teammates, leaping into the air with a fist pump. He then turned to the crowd and grabbed his crotch with his right hand. Nodding along as he did it, Zirkzee's actions - which followed a machine gun celebration at the Emirates Stadium after his winning penalty last week - may have consequences.

According to Hackett, a fine an a suspension will be coming his way. “I expect the Football Association to charge the player for his rather stupid celebration act," he told Football Insider.

“Doing this in front of the supporters will certainly result in a fine and a strong possibility of a minimum three-match ban. The FA have to take into account that actions of this nature incite the fans and can easily create fans surging forward and potential crushing injuries. A young man who will not doubt receive some operational advice from his club and management.”

Zirkzee has had a tough time since joining United in the summer, scoring just three league goals in 21 appearances. He has four in all competitions but has struggled to fully adapt to life in England and was booed off by his own fans last month.

He will hope that this week can prove as something of a turning point at Old Trafford , especially with transfer speculation around him proving rife. However, if Hackett is right, Zirkzee will have to wait on the sidelines for a while before picking up where he left off.

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