Erik ten Hag has named one player in particular who left him ‘really pleased’ following Manchester United’s victory over Newcastle United.
It’s been a long, old, miserable campaign for Manchester United but the Old Trafford faithful at least got to end their season on a high.
Erik ten Hag’s side put in an entertaining and hard-working display to defeat Newcastle United 3-2.
A composed Kobbie Mainoo finish, a thumping Amad strike and a tidy Rasmus Hojlund shot into the far corner secured the three points.
It was far from a perfect performance with several players making mistakes on the ball and another day it could have gone the other way.
But Ten Hag will take the welcome relief of a win amid the constant scrutiny and moved to highlight Hojlund after the game for his fine finish.
Erik ten Hag praises Rasmus Hojlund for goal vs Newcastle
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Ten Hag said: “I think he [Hojlund] needs some rest so he’s fresh.
“Strikers live for goals. It’s very important for his confidence so I’m really pleased he scored.”
On the game, he added: “It’s always nice to win any game. It’s important to win the last game at Old Trafford this season.
“The fans deserve this because they’ve had difficult times and always stayed with us.
“We are here together. We wanted to pay the fans back.
“Fantastic. Great goals. But it was a team effort how we made the goals.
“But I’m always happy at young players who are progressing very good and scored some brilliant goals.”
A much-needed confidence boost for Hojlund
Hojlund’s goal came just 107 seconds after his introduction from the bench and with his first touches on the ball.
Receiving Bruno Fernandes’ pass in his stride, Hojlund advanced parallel to the goal, held off the challenge from a defender then managed to squeeze the ball into the far corner with a precise finish.
It was just the Dane’s second goal since returning from injury but this one was a much brighter sign than the late tap-in against Sheffield United.
Hojlund has struggled in recent months for any sort of form or influence but provided a much-needed reminder of his potential quality.
Now he must build on his goal and continue to grow in confidence, especially with an FA Cup final just around the corner.