Rasmus Hojlund scored Manchester United‘s third goal during their thrilling 3-2 victory over Newcastle on Wednesday.
Erik ten Hag‘s side ended their final Premier League home game of the season with a victory over their European rivals. The win has kept their hopes of securing European football through the league alive, with United visiting Brighton and Hove Albion on the final day.
And a Hojlund stat has emerged moments after he found the bottom corner of Martin Dubravka’s net. The forward’s conversion rate of 24 per cent is now better than Manchester City star Erling Haaland (23 per cent) in the Premier League this season.
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The difference may only be small but considering the quality of players surrounding Haaland, it is a testament to the Danish striker’s growing improvement that he is ahead of City’s number nine in a key statistic.
Obvious comparisons were made between the two when Hojlund was signed last summer. Whilst United’s striker has come nowhere near the goalscoring output of Haaland, it should be noted that the very nature of the Reds’ season would hamper any new player.
The Dane has shown promise during his debut campaign in England and remains popular with fans who can see his potential. United will undoubtedly need a greater goalscoring return from him next season, but the future remains bright.
Hojlund will only improve in a better team with a more cohesive structure. Another striker to take the pressure off could also be of benefit.
His goal against Newcastle will give him a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the vital final two games of the season. United will be hoping that he has rediscovered the belief that saw him score seven Premier League goals in six matches earlier this year.
An in-form Hojlund will be key to ending a nightmare campaign for Ten Hag’s team on a high.