Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has lightheartedly accused his club of "stealing" set-piece strategies from their Premier League rivals following their comeback victory against Crystal Palace. United secured a 2-1 win at Selhurst Park, with both goals originating from free-kick situations.

Crystal Palace initially took the lead through Jean-Philippe Mateta's penalty in the 36th minute. However, United returned after the break with renewed vigor. Joshua Zirkzee leveled the score nine minutes into the second half, capitalizing on a Bruno Fernandes free-kick. Mason Mount then sealed the victory with a well-placed curling shot from a quickly taken free-kick in the 63rd minute.

Speaking after the match, Amorim acknowledged the growing importance of set-piece execution in the Premier League. "We have more time to work and we work a lot and we are learning," he stated. "We learn a lot in England. You are used to do that and see that (set-piece), but when you come to the Premier League, you learn a lot about how other the teams do it". He then added with a touch of humor, "And we are stealing a lot of things to score goals".

Amorim's comments highlight a growing trend in modern football, where set-pieces are increasingly viewed as crucial opportunities to score. Manchester United's recent success from set plays, including goals at Nottingham Forest and Tottenham earlier in November, underscores their focus on this aspect of the game. With the two goals against Crystal Palace, the Reds are now level with Arsenal for the most set-piece goals in the league this season, with 10 goals in just 13 games.

The victory against Crystal Palace marks United's fourth win in seven matches under Amorim, placing them just four points behind Manchester City in the league standings. However, Amorim stressed the need for improvement following a shaky first-half performance where Crystal Palace missed opportunities to extend their lead. He noted that his half-time instructions focused on ensuring everyone understood the game, praising his team's improved pace and intensity in the second half. Amorim said he saw that Palace were getting tired at the end of the first half & knew they would suffer if they scored.

Amorim also lauded Joshua Zirkzee's growing influence on the team, emphasizing his improved ability to hold the ball and connect with teammates. He also mentioned the importance of shared goals across the squad.