Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag expects more goals from Rasmus Hojlund, who, he says, has integrated well with the team in his first season.
The Danish striker appeared frustrated after being substituted in the second half during the Premier League match against Fulham over the weekend but is expected to start against Copenhagen in the UEFA Champions League tonight.
“I think he has integrated very well,” said Ten Hag in a press conference yesterday. “He has already scored three goals in the Champions League, which is impressive for an integration period. I believe that, as a team, we can improve our possession game, creating more and better chances, which will provide our offensive players with more opportunities to score goals.”
Ten Hag’s side has struggled for consistency this season, winning six games and losing five in the Premier League, with just one win in the UCL after three games. They currently sit in 8th place on the Premier League table, and a loss to Copenhagen tonight will decrease United’s chances of advancing to the knockout rounds or even the Europa League.
The goal that secured all three points in the reverse fixture 👏
🎯 @HarryMaguire93#MUFC || #UCL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 7, 2023
Ten Hag has attributed his team’s lack of consistency and precision in front of goal to injuries, with several first-team players sidelined.
“What we need to work on is establishing a stable starting XI, or at least having 12 or 13 key players, to improve our routines and create better chances. However, I must say that Rasmus has integrated very well within the team and the club from a social perspective. In terms of football, he has already scored three goals in the Champions League, which is a commendable performance. From this point on, he needs to build on that and continue to improve.”
