Manchester United are taking a cautious approach with Rasmus Hojlund who picked up a hamstring injury in pre-season, according to ESPN.
The Denmark international has not played a single minute for the Red Devils since the injury sustained against Arsenal on July 28.
United confirmed that the striker will return to action after a six-week timeframe, but his comeback could be delayed.
Hojlund has started individual training. but has yet to be involved with the team.
The club are reportedly taking a ‘cautious approach’ with him, considering he did not have time to build up his fitness during pre-season.
Hojlund was on international duty with Denmark until June 29. He had just one week of training with United before his setback.
The club don’t plan to rush him back to avoid the prospect of another injury.
There is a high chance that he won’t be available for Saturday’s Premier League game at Southampton.
United taking the right approach with Hojlund’s fitness
Hojlund had a good debut season with 16 goals, but he was also sidelined with three short-term injuries.
Two of those were muscular, and the club’s doctors may be wary of another recurrence if he starts playing immediately after the break.
Hojlund may not make the bench on Saturday. The £55 million-rated star could be eased into action later this month.
United manager Erik ten Hag now has a different striker solution in Joshua Zirkzee, who has already made his mark with a winning goal.
Zirkzee squandered a couple of clear-cut chances against Liverpool and will have a point to prove against the Saints.
He has had a good international break with a goal and an assist, and he will hopefully replicate his form for the Red Devils.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.