Denmark coach hits back at Rasmus Hojlund criticism amid Man Utd form

Denmark assistant manager Morten Wieghorst insists Rasmus Hojlund has not been affected by criticism during the early weeks of his Manchester United career.

Hojlund was under a lot of scrutiny following his £72million move from Atalanta in the summer, having failed to score in any of his first 14 Premier League appearances. The 20-year-old was prolific in the Champions League group stages but seemingly unable to transfer that into domestic action.

Hojlund finally got his first Premier League goal in the 3-2 win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day and has been unstoppable since, netting six times in the five games since to take his league total to seven. It's been an excellent run for the Dane and his national team coach insists self-belief is the key.

“It’s been fantastic to witness," he told Tipsbladet. "For the team, it has been a tough time, but Rasmus has persisted. Firstly, he has an amazing mentality – that’s also what is being said over there. He has kept his composure no matter what has been said or written.

“We have to remember that he is still young and playing for a huge club. What he is doing at the moment is great primarily for Rasmus himself, but also for Manchester United, and ultimately for the Danish national team. It’s really good. Of course, we hope he continues, and I have no doubt about it.

“There are huge expectations in a club like United. Again, I have to emphasise that Rasmus is very young, but he has kept his composure and focused on what he can control. That’s what he does daily on the training ground, and what he certainly does and has done on the pitch for United.

"Ultimately, that’s the most important thing for a professional footballer in his position. He has such strong belief in himself and his teammates, so he doesn’t let himself be affected by what is said and written.”

Hojlund is currently the only natural No.9 available at United, with Anthony Martial out until April after undergoing surgery on a groin issue. The former Atalanta man will likely be backed up by a new signing in the summer, with manager Erik ten Hag keen to bring in some more experienced support.