Matt Turner came up big (and short) this Saturday when Nottingham Forest defeated Manchester United 2-1 in Matchday 20 of the Premier League.
The American was having an acceptable performance at City Ground while his team maintained a 1-0 lead, but a horrific pass out the back, intercepted by the United attack, ended in a goal conceded and the momentary draw.
Alejandro Garnacho takes advantage of Matt Turner's error and Marcus Rashford brings Manchester United level!
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) December 30, 2023
Unfortunate scenes.
This horrible highlight quickly made its way onto social media, rebirthing critiques of the USMNT goalkeeper’s poor ability to play with his feet and as one of the reasons why he hasn’t been able to consolidate himself in the Premier League.
Matt Turner is an actual criminal, once again a calamity.
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) December 30, 2023
Oh man, Matt Turner with another mistake with his feet and Man Utd equalize. Had just gotten back into the team as well. #USMNT
— Stu Holden (@stuholden) December 30, 2023
Matt Turner has to be the worst goalkeeper in the world with the ball at his feet
— Nick (@nicksantos_14) December 30, 2023
However, after Nottingham Forest managed to regain the lead and with the away side pushing for an equalizer in the closing minutes, a Bruno Fernandes volley deflected inside the box brought Matt Turner’s goal-saving abilities back to life.
Watch: Matt Turner makes amazing game-winning save vs. Manchester United
The 29-year-old had a fantastic reaction to the deflection, smacking the ball right at the goal line and out for a corner kick, meaning Nottingham Forest was going to keep the crucial three points at home.
A HUGE late save by USMNT keeper Matt Turner preserves Nottingham Forest's lead! pic.twitter.com/wDVGBY4waK
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) December 30, 2023
You love to see a redemption story.
This was Matt Turner’s fifth consecutive start for Forest (after three consecutive games on the bench) and the second consecutive win under new manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
The fresh managerial start with the Portuguese, along with the club’s recent good form, is nothing short of a good opportunity for a Turner who wishes to continue performing and playing ahead of the 2024 Copa America with the USMNT.
