One Manchester United star should be given a break from the starting lineup after a string of poor displays under Ruben Amorim.
United defeated Southampton 3-1 at Old Trafford on Thursday, with Amad Diallo’s late hat-trick securing the points.
Despite the victory, the team’s overall performance was underwhelming, and United were fortunate to take all three points.
Amad’s brilliance was a standout, but several players struggled, with many underperforming under Amorim’s guidance.
Rasmus Hojlund started despite calls for Joshua Zirkzee to replace the out-of-form Danish striker.
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Hojlund has now gone eight matches without a goal and delivered another ineffective performance against Southampton.
His failure to involve others in the attack was particularly evident, as he won just two out of 10 duels.
This hindered United’s ability to progress the ball and drew frustration from fans at Old Trafford.
During the match, ESPN journalist Rob Dawson commented: “Crowd starting to get really frustrated with Hojlund.
“Struggling to hold the ball up.”
Crowd starting to get really frustrated with Hojlund. Struggling to hold the ball up and get United moving up the pitch.
— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) January 16, 2025
Hojlund has started nine of United’s last 11 matches but has failed to show much improvement during this run.
Zirkzee is not necessarily a huge upgrade.
However, he appears to be more confident and better at holding the ball up.
This could provide United with a different option in attack and relieve some pressure on Hojlund.
Giving Hojlund time on the bench could allow him to refocus and make an impact as a substitute.
He was effective in this role late last season and could offer value as a game-changer off the bench.
United often lack impactful substitutes, so Zirkzee starting while Hojlund comes off the bench seems logical.
Interesting times ahead for United fans with the January window open.
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