Hotshot Hojlund on fire for revitalised Red Devils

Rasmus Hojlund took some time to adjust to life in the Premier League — but everything has clicked into place since the turn of the year.

The Danish striker agonisingly had to wait until Boxing Day to score his first top-flight goal when he found the net to complete a comeback victory against Aston Villa.

That proved to be the catalyst for a significant upturn in form, with Hojlund scoring five goals in his last five appearances across all competitions.

Ahead of United's trip to Luton, we take a closer look at the 21-year-old's excellent recent performances.

Ending the drought

There is no doubt that Hojlund is a confidence player.

That is not uncommon for youngsters new to the Premier League and with the added burden of an expensive transfer fee.

The £72million youngster arrived from Atalanta in the summer with big expectations — and there was a sense in the early months of the season that he was struggling to cope with that pressure.

Patience and self belief were always going to be necessary, though, particularly given United's inconsistency at the start of the campaign.

There was a palpable feeling of relief when Hojlund scored his first Premier League goal. His celebration, a sprint towards the Stretford End before a passionate roar in front of the United faithful, reflected that.

With that weight off his shoulders, it is hardly surprising that he has begun to score freely.

New year, new Hojlund

If 2023 was a year of acclimatisation for Hojlund, 2024 could be the year he truly arrives at the top level.

Before this gameweek, no Premier League player had scored more goals than the Dane since the turn of the year (four).

He has scored those goals from just seven shots, evidence of his new-found confidence and clinicality.

Those United fans who continued to back Hojlund during a barren spell throughout November and December will certainly feel vindicated.

A few had written off the Copenhagen-born ace — but he had shown signs of his potential with five goals in the Champions League group stage.

The challenge now for Hojlund is to prove that his form over the last few weeks is more than just a purple patch.

Keeping the faith

Erik ten Hag's comments after Hojlund scored his first Premier League goal proved prescient.

The United boss said: "I have had several talks with him. I pointed out that you scored for Denmark a lot, you scored in the Champions League, you have demonstrated the ability, so you can do it.

"Believe in it and it will come. I am sure now the first goal is in, he will get more.

"Of course, when strikers don't score that is always a problem but he has a strong character and is always so determined.

"He has a big personality and that is what a striker needs. And when you keep investing, the goals will come."

The goals have come and there is excitement that plenty more could follow.

If Hojlund can continue to perform so consistently until the end of the season, United might find themselves in real contention for a top-four finish.