Manchester United’s performance at Fulham was far from brilliant but one player in particular struggled more than anyone.
Lisandro Martinez scored the only goal of the game at Craven Cottage to give Manchester United a much-needed three points in the Premier League.
The Red Devils looked toothless going forward but the Argentine’s deflected shot from range broke the deadlock. United dug in for the final few minutes and Toby Collyer’s incredible goal-line clearance secured a 1-0 victory.
It means United have kept a clean sheet for just the second time under Ruben Amorim – the first came in the 4-0 win over Everton at the start of December.
It was a gritty and scrappy performance from United and while Amorim will be pleased with his side’s defending, he will be very concerned about the lack of threat from striker Rasmus Hojlund.
Rio Ferdinand criticises Rasmus Hojlund display vs Fulham
Amorim decided to start Hojlund against Fulham despite Joshua Zirkzee leading the line against Rangers and Brighton.
It was a chance for the Dane to regain his starting spot and make an impression, but he struggled to have an impact and United fans were frustrated by Hojlund’s display.
After a drab first-half performance, former United star Rio Ferdinand suggested Hojlund’s teammates will be furious with him in the dressing room.
Speaking via TNT Sports, Ferdinand said: “I would be surprised if Rasmus Hojlund isn’t getting a few fingers pointed at him.
“Hold the ball up – Hojlund is the platform for them to get up the pitch. Manchester United cannot get any good possession around the final third when their number nine is not able to hold the ball up.”
Numbers behind Rasmus Hojlund’s disappointing performance
Amorim has defended Hojlund’s poor form, suggesting his lack of goals has been because of a team problem rather than the player.
That may be the case, but there were a handful of unforgivable moments from Hojlund against Fulham. His match stats paint a worrying picture.
| Minutes played | 58 |
| Touches | 21 |
| Shots attempted | 0 |
| Dribbles completed | 0% (0/1) |
| Passes completed | 75% (6/8) |
| Duels won | 18% (2/11) |
| Possession lost | 12 |
During his 58 minutes on the pitch, Hojlund only completed six passes and lost possession a staggering 12 times. He struggled to hold the ball up and United’s attack was more fluid when he was replaced by Zirkzee for the final 30 minutes.
Amorim now has a big decision to make about whether Hojlund or Zirkzee starts on Thursday evening when United face FCSB in the Europa League.
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