Rasmus Hojlund described himself as a “lucky and happy man” after finally breaking his Premier League duck in Manchester United’s 3-2 win over Aston Villa last night.
The Denmark striker volleyed past Emi Martinez in the Villa goal with eight minutes to go to complete a remarkable comeback that had looked unlikely when United trailed Unai Emery’s men 2-0 at half-time.
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Hojlund scored five goals in United’s unsuccessful Champions League campaign but had to wait 15 appearances before finally netting in the English top flight.
His emotional celebration in front of the Stretford End showed what it meant.
He told the Guardian: “There is a relief to score my first Premier League goal, but it isn’t like I haven’t scored goals; I’ve scored five in the Champions League.
“You can see the relief in my celebration as well, but also the feeling of being the match-winner and getting the three points at home against a good opponent. I’m a lucky and happy man.”
When Rasmus scored, we all felt that ❤️#MUFC || #MUNAVL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 27, 2023
Hojlund has come in for some fierce criticism despite playing in a team struggling to create many meaningful chances.
“I try to focus on my game every day,” he added. “I don’t listen to the media, if I did, I would be crazy. I just focus on my game, focus on winning football matches for Manchester United, focus on becoming better in front of goal and all the other attributes as well.”
