Rasmus Hojlund out for "two to three weeks" with muscle injury

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 23 February 2024

Manchester United reveal that centre-forward Rasmus Hojlund is facing "two to three weeks" on the sidelines with a muscular injury.

Manchester United have revealed that in-form centre-forward Rasmus Hojlund is facing "two to three weeks" on the sidelines with a muscular injury.

The Denmark international has scored seven goals and registered two assists in his last six Premier League appearances during a tremendous run of form.

Hojlund had to wait until Boxing Day to register his first domestic goal for the Red Devils, but he has been in excellent form since and also struck against Newport County in the FA Cup at the end of January.

The 21-year-old, who has 13 goals to his name at club level this term, was expected to again lead the Man United line in Saturday's Premier League clash with Fulham.

Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund celebrates scoring against Tottenham Hotspur on January 14, 2024 © Reuters

However, Man United said in a statement on Friday afternoon that the forward had suffered a muscular injury which will keep him out of action for the next "two to three weeks".

"Rasmus Hojlund will miss Manchester United's Premier League game against Fulham on Saturday due to a muscle injury. It is expected to keep him out for two to three weeks," read a statement on the club's official website.

Should Hojlund be missing for three weeks, he would be absent for the FA Cup fifth-round clash with Nottingham Forest on February 28, in addition to Premier League games with Fulham, Manchester City, Everton and Sheffield United.

However, the fixture with Sheffield United in the middle of March will be rescheduled if Man United advance to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Anthony Martial has not played since the start of December and will not be available until at least the end of March, meaning that Man United currently have no recognised centre-forward.

Manchester United's Marcus Rashford celebrates scoring against Wolverhampton Wanderers on February 1, 2024 © Reuters

In Hojlund's absence, Marcus Rashford is likely to operate through the middle, which could open the door for Antony to come into the front three alongside the Englishman and Alejandro Garnacho.

Amad Diallo has also previously been mentioned by head coach Erik ten Hag as a possible option through the middle, although he has only played once this season.

Scott McTominay has scored seven Premier League goals this term and continues to be used in an advanced area by Ten Hag, although it would be a surprise to see him used as the centre-forward.

Man United will go in search of a sixth straight win in all competitions when they welcome Fulham to Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.