‘I think…’: Ten Hag explains why he believes £85k p/w star is struggling since injury return

Manchester United fans are hoping to see Rasmus Hojlund reignite his prolific goalscoring form again before the end of the season.

The Danish international made history in February when he became the youngest-ever player to score in six consecutive Premier League matches, having netted six times while achieving the impressive feat.

It took Hojlund 15 matches before he was able to open his account in the top flight so when the goals began flowing in, it seemed as though the floodgates had opened and he had finally found his feet.

However, the run came to an abrupt end when he sustained a muscle injury and was sidelined for three matches, missing fixtures against Fulham, Manchester City and Everton before returning to face Brentford.

Hojlund, who earns a reported £85,000 per week, has been unable to find the back of the net in the past four league outings, despite starting from the offset in each and playing three full 90s.

Of course, it’s important to remember that the forward is still only 21 years old. Long-term injuries to Anthony Martial means he is the sole No.9 available to lead the line each week, and it’s not as if the rest of the squad are covering themselves in glory either.

Injuries have impacted the entire squad, says the manager

Erik ten Hag was pressed on Hojlund’s recent struggles in this week’s pre-match press conference (MUTV), telling reporters: “He was in a fantastic run and then broke his rhythm, and why? The question was why? I think there are also always many reasons why.

“For instance, he was in the moment when he was in that run, and we had the moment where we had many players available. We could bring out a strong side.

“And after he returned, yeah, we have to make compromises, and yeah, of course, that is what decreases the performance. And that has also an impact on everyone, so also on the striker.”