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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Steven Railston

Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer gives two reasons why dressing room has impressed him

Marcel Sabitzer has praised the 'team spirit' and 'mentality' of Manchester United's dressing room after victory against Fulham.

United were the favourites to progress to the semi-finals of the FA Cup against Fulham, but the London club were the better side throughout the first half and they deservedly opened the scoring just after the break through Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Reds looked to respond to that setback and the game was eventually spectacularly blown open after a chaotic few minutes, which saw Willian sent off for handling the ball on the goalline and strong protests from Mitrovic and Marco Silva.

ALSO READ: Man United player ratings vs Fulham as Martinez and De Gea good

In extraordinary circumstances, Mitrovic and Silva were shown straight red cards for their protests, Bruno Fernandes subsequently scored the penalty that had been given and, just a few minutes later, Marcel Sabitzer scored to make the game 2-1.

Sabitzer reflected on the performance after the game and he praised the mentality of the dressing room this season.

"There was a lot in the game. 1-0 down, two red cards, a penalty, a comeback," Sabitzer told MUTV. "We were very focused and we wanted to go back to Wembley. We did it and that's the most important thing.

"First of all, I think we played a good first half, had some chances and missed them. After half-time, we came out, we conceded a goal, that's not what he wanted. We knew it would be tough and hard but we still believed.

"I think we have a good team spirit and mentality - you can always see that on the pitch. The fans were amazing, they pushed us forward and we're very happy today. To be fair, I have to say, two men down for Fulham is not easy.

"So it was a bit easier for us, but we have a good team spirit, a good group of guys. You can feel it in the dressing room, on the pitch and off it. As I've said, we stick together all the time and we're very happy with the result."

Sabitzer was also asked about scoring his first goal for the club since signing on loan and he appeared to be delighted.

"I was overwhelmed, I was looking for it [first goal]," he added. "Scoring my first at Old Trafford, in front of the amazing fans and it's an important goal. 2-1 is a massive one. I couldn't reach it with my right foot, I just tried to hit it with my left and it worked out.

"Before the game, we were very focused on going back to Wembley and we've done it. We'll be ready to go to the final."

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