Man United dressing room should follow the lead of Rasmus Hojlund

Man United have someone they can turn to in Rasmus Hojlund, while the rest of the dressing room should look to follow him.

There were doubters across the footballing landscape when Manchester United chose to spend big on Rasmus Hojlund. It was inevitable, as were the links to Erling Haaland, just because both strikers are Scandinavian. If the United man goes on to half half-as-good-a season as Haaland’s debut campaign, it’d be a successful one.

In terms of the early signs, it’s all positive. From minute one of his debut from off the substitutes bench, Hojlund looked bang at it. The first thing I noticed was the energy and tenacity with which he plays. The striker does not give opposing defenders any room to breath on the ball, which is exactly what you want from any striker in the modern-day game.

Being a boyhood United fan always helps. He wears that badge with pride as he understands what it means to support the 20-time Premier League champions. He has that added desire, willingness to succeed and passion which is sometimes so key.

With each passing game, Hojlund has improved. He has three goals so far. All of them have come in the Champions League, and as his relationship with his new teammates continues to develop, you’d expect the man from Denmark to improve even further.

Tuesday’s Champions League game was disappointing. For obvious reasons. Though Hojlund offered a glimmer of hope. The way the striker carried himself was nothing short of exemplary, particularly as he’s still so young, playing with some of the best, most experienced players in the world. The United dressing room can learn a lot from the 20-year-old who definitely had that fire in his belly.

We’ve already alluded to the effort and work ethic, though factor in his deadly finishing and you’ve already got a striker on your hands with elite capabilities. He’s scored three goals so far. All of which vastly different. The header against Galatasaray he showcased his touch, precision and ability to get himself on the end of a cross. His second goal against the Turkish side was all his own work. Beating players with ease before deftly finishing beyond a hapless keeper. The goal against Bayern was all down to sheer work ethic and desire to win.

I have some issues with the service (or lack of) that Hojlund has received. Perhaps it’s down to the fact that these players are still building their connections, but the midfielders and wingers just haven’t been feeding Hojlund enough. You can either play it in behind due to his rapid pace, or give it into feet to highlight his brilliant hold-up play. Just get him on the ball. He will make things happen.

Yes, it’s early days, but there’s an elite player there. We can all see it as supporters. It’s now down to the dressing room to recognise that they have a potential talisman on their hands. We’ve been crying out for a proper number nine for years. Why not make full use of it?

Do you think Rasmus Hojlund will continue to set the tone for Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.