Ruben Amorim demands more from Rasmus Hojlund after his two-goal display against Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
Manchester United recorded their second win in Europe this season on Thursday night, beating Norwegian opposition 3-2 at Old Trafford.
The Reds made hard work of the tie after opening the scoring just 58 minutes in.
Hojlund’s first goal saw him control and dispatch the ball similar to how he scored his maiden Premier League goal against Aston Villa almost a year ago. The goal ensured United went in level at the break after throwing away their early lead.
He would then convert from close range to restore United’s lead. It was his eighth goal in nine European starts for the Reds and it puts him in contention to start against Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.
Amorim did not get ahead of himself in his post-match interview when discussing Hojlund’s man of the match display. The striker still has a long way before he cements his role in the team as our main centre forward.
“I think he needs to improve the connection, I think he has to improve more because sometimes he gives too many touches when he holds the ball,” Amorim said after the match, as per The Athletic.
“But he is very important for us because, when we are in the low block, he is the guy to hold the ball and connect for transitions. He did that very well [against Bodo/Glimt].
“He has those characteristics. He was aggressive in the goals, he was aggressive in the box. And he is a quality player. I think he scores the most difficult goals so he has a lot to improve.
“But he did a great job today.”
Can Rasmus Hojlund build on his two goal display?
Right now we are raising standards and getting used to Amorim’s style of football. He is right to demand more from his players and there’s reason to believe Hojlund will now be full of confidence moving forward.
Hojlund will be looking to add to his account against Everton on Sunday.
Amorim will also consider Marcus Rashford for the centre forward role when United take on the Toffees.
