Rasmus Hojlund ended his Manchester United goal drought with the opener at Leicester City
Sunday evening’s 3-0 win over Leicester City in the Premier League provided some much-needed confidence - and probably a feeling of relief - for Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund.
The Denmark international netted the opener at the King Power Stadium for his first goal since December 12, when he scored twice in a 2-1 win over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League. The ex-Atalanta United man had gone 21 games without a goal but was delighted to end that run as the Red Devils went into the international break on a high.
Hojlund had won the first penalty in the 4-1 win over Real Sociedad last Thursday. Bruno Fernandes scored from the spot to get United level in the tie and on the night as they went on to set up a quarter final clash with Lyon. But he finally got the goal he craved and will now hope to kick on in the final months of the season.
Hojlund reveals Schmeichel support
Sunday’s goal against Leicester was Hojlund’s eighth in 43 appearances this season. The United striker is part of the Denmark squad for their Nations League quarter final clashes on Thursday and Sunday, with the Red Devils man set to face off against United teammates Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes in those games.
In quotes relayed by the Manchester United club website, Hojlund has revealed how club legend Peter Schmeichel has provided him with support since his move to Old Trafford. Hojlund said of compatriot Schmeichel: "Peter helps me occasionally and listens to how I'm feeling, both when things are going well and things are going badly. I wouldn't call him a father figure but he helps a lot because he's been through it before.
"He knows what it means to play for Manchester United as a Dane. It's nice to have someone to spar with on that front."
Denmark coach backs decision to select Hojlund
Hojlund’s selection in the Denmark squad was confirmed last week, before he had scored against Leicester. Despite his recent struggles in front of goal, Denmark manager Brian Riemer defended his decision to call Hojlund into the side.
Riemer said: “Rasmus Hojlund’s form speaks for itself. I can’t say anything else, because you know the numbers. I would prefer to select a team where the players are bursting with self-confidence and in top form. But sometimes you also have to compromise. My job is to find the balance of how many of those who are not in top form I can select. I think Rasmus Hojlund really benefits from coming here and getting some national love.”
The 22-year-old has 22 international caps, scoring seven times for his country. He will be joined on international duty by United teammates Christian Eriksen and Patrick Dorgu.