Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has praised the impact of Rasmus Hojlund during the group stage of the Champions League.
The Dane joined the Red Devils from Atalanta in a deal worth £72 million over the summer but he has yet to score in the Premier League.
However, it has been a completely different story in Europe with five goals from four group games. This has included a couple of braces.
Hojlund missed the weekend’s action at Everton after his recent muscle injury, but he is expected to lead the attack against Galatasaray this evening.
Ahead of the game, Ten Hag was asked about the impact of the 20-year-old in the Champions League.
In response, the Dutchman heaped praise on Hojlund and said that he is eager to score even more.
He said in a Q&A session on Manutd.com: “He did magnificent. As a young player, you’re playing your first season in the Champions League, you already net five times and he’s so eager to score even more.”
Hojlund crucial for United in must-win game at Galatasaray
In Hojlund’s absence, Anthony Martial led the line against Everton on Sunday. The Frenchman won a penalty and scored a goal of his own.
Despite this, Martial may have to drop to the bench for this game unless Ten Hag is prepared to experiment with two up front in Istanbul.
Nothing much has gone right for Hojlund in the Premier League, but he has looked a different player in Europe with confidence under his belt.
Three of his goals have come on the road this term. The Dane clearly seems to enjoy the big occasion.
Hopefully, United will avoid going down to 10 men this time around. It has been the case in the last two occasions when Hojlund has scored a brace.
Today’s game at Rams Park is a must-win with just one point separating United from Galatasaray and Copenhagen, who are third and second in the group respectively.
Copenhagen host Galatasaray in matchday six while United welcome Bayern Munich. The Red Devils need three points to keep their round of 16 destiny in their own hands.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
