Manchester United failed to find the net in a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in which the team appeared to deserve a lot more.
Erik ten Hag‘s Manchester United enjoyed lots of possession against Arsenal but lacked the quality to break down a resolute Gunners defence.
It was a very frustrating afternoon for striker Rasmus Hojlund, who was substituted for youngster Ethan Wheatley late in the game.
The Dane had just one shot, which missed the target. He has failed to build on his goal against Sheffield United last month, which he hoped might spark a run of goals.
Rasmus Hojlund display criticised
Rasmus Hojlund had a low grade in our player ratings and did not see a lot of the ball. He completed only 10 passes.
MUTV pundit Danny Webber spoke out to say he believes Hojlund’s movement was not good enough, and he got drawn into a battle with the Arsenal defenders too frequently.
“Rasmus, his form before he got injured was very good…”, Webber began.
He added: “He’s got to get on the shoulder. You’ve got to not make it such a fight, and not be seen by the centre-halves.
“It is difficult, I’ve played as a one up top, but you’ve got to then be smart with the runs that you make, running in behind, so that everything isn’t just a wrestle with the centre-halves. It takes your energy away.
Hojlund worked hard, that can’t be disputed, but sometimes more subtlety is required.
Wayne Rooney praises Hojlund
Wayne Rooney told Sky Sports before the game that he sees positives in the Manchester United striker’s game.
He said: “I really like Hojlund. What I like about him is he is always in a position and always gets chances. He has not always taken them, he has missed chances, but I think for a forward, all you can ask is get in the right positions.
“If you are getting chances, more often than not, you will take them. If he keeps putting himself in the right positions, I think he will be a very good player for them in the next few years.”
Long-term Hojlund can provide a solution for United’s striker woes. But it’s been a long season, and he has found it tough at times.
He has netted 14 goals, and we hope there are one or two left for him before this season is out.