Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was in action on international duty for Turkey against Italy.
Since his transfer deadline day move to Manchester United, supporters have not seen much of former Fenerbahce goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.
Even Andre Onana‘s participation at the African Cup of Nations provided little opportunity due to Cameroon’s swift elimination, with Bayindir playing only one game for Manchester United all season.
Bayindir played in Manchester United’s FA Cup game away at Newport County, a 4-2 victory.
He has seen more action this season for his country. Currently he is battling for a starting spot at Euro 2024.
Altay Bayindir stars for Turkey v Italy
Altay Bayindir featured for Turkey in a surprise win against Germany earlier this season, but he is typically their second choice behind Ugurcan Cakir.
Last night he was given an opportunity to stake his claim ahead of the European Championships when Turkey took on Italy in a friendly.
Despite his lack of action, Bayindir came through it well, keeping a clean sheet in a fairly tepid 0-0 draw.
While Italy had 11 shots at Bayindir’s goal, they managed to land only two on target, with the Manchester United goalkeeper dealing with them well.
He was saved when Italy struck the woodwork with one effort, aside from that it was a comfortable game for a goalkeeper in need of some match practice.
How the international press reacted to Bayindir
Turkish outlet Sozcu reflected on Bayindir’s late game impact, noting how he was able to ‘control’ a late threat from Italian substitute Giacomo Raspadori in stoppage time.
Italian website TMW graded him a 6/10, noting that he had little do, blaming Italy’s dismal attack.
It was progress for the Manchester United goalkeeper simply to be back on the pitch. A clean sheet is the main target for any goalkeeper, and he will be pleased to have made a successful return to action.
Bayindir’s involvement as a starter at Euro 2024 is yet to be decided, but manager Vincenzo Montella will have found little to complain about with his performance last night.