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Rasmus Hojlund revealed he was “trying not to fight too much with the defenders” during Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Brentford yesterday.
The number nine’s brilliantly-executed goal in the 62nd minute proved crucial to the Red Devils coming from behind to claim all three points at Old Trafford. But it was Hojlund’s all-round play which impressed as much as his deft chip over the Brentford goalkeeper.
Fellow scorer Alejandro Garnacho described his teammate’s winner as the “worst part” of Hojlund’s day – a testament to just how well-rounded a performance it was.
A consistent criticism of the striker during his time at Old Trafford is a tendency to engage in physical battles with the opposition defence, often leading him to appear as focused on the centre-back as he is on the ball.
Despite only being 21 years of age, Hojlund possesses a powerful frame. His strength and sturdiness are undoubted positives, but the Danish international’s reliance upon them has come as a detriment to his overall game.
Hojlund’s top speed is excellent. He also retains great acceleration for a striker measuring 1.91m in height; far faster, on average, than whatever defender he is lining up against.
In a foot race, there are few centre-backs in the Premier League who will be able to keep up with the dynamic Dane. However, most will be able to comfortably handle themselves in a physical battle with Hojlund.
This approach of seeking to “fight too much with the defenders”, as the 21-year-old pointed out in his post-match interview yesterday, has come at the detriment of his overall game, as it does not focus on the area which promotes his greatest chance of success – speed.
Hojlund should be constantly seeking to run in behind defences. And, when he does come short, he should be seeking to turn quickly and drive into the space his run has created, or simply lay it off to a teammate and make a beeline towards the goal after.
The Dane’s link-up play was excellent against Brentford. He revealed he was “trying to focus on getting the ball to my feet” with a “spin” tactic proving particularly successful. Rather than looking to ‘win’ a battle with the Brentford centre-backs, Hojlund instead focused on preventing a battle from ever taking place.
“It worked very well today,” Hojlund concluded. “I’m very pleased with the team’s and my own performance.” It was a performance won by winning individual battles against the Brentford defenders without ever actually entering the battle field with them.
The addition of Ruud van Nistelrooy to the United coaching staff – a previous occupant of the number nine shirt at Old Trafford – will undoubtedly have played a role in this new, and successful, approach.
Hojlund described it as a “big step” to be working with the Dutch coach, who scored 150 times for the Red Devils in his five years at the club -“he is doing a great job.” If the young Dane continues to listen to the experienced Dutchman, the sky is the limit for Hojlund.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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