Rasmus Hojlund has started individual training on the grass, as the Denmark international steps up his recovery from the hamstring injury that he suffered during Manchester United's preparations for the new campaign.
In his first appearance of the summer, Hojlund found the back of the net against Arsenal, but he was forced off the field during the same match due to a muscular complaint.
Initially, it had been thought that the Dane would be able to recover from the issue in time for the start of the Premier League campaign, but it was ultimately concluded that he would be missing until the middle of September.
Hojlund will again be absent for Sunday's Premier League clash against Liverpool, but the fact that the 21-year-old is back on the grass suggests that he could return for the team's first game after the international break against Southampton.
Rasmus is back.#MUFC pic.twitter.com/1TptV7340m
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 29, 2024
Hojlund is back on the grass at Carrington
"Rasmus Hojlund has continued his rehabilitation at Carrington, as the Manchester United forward bids to return from injury," read a statement on Man United's official website.
"Rasmus has been working hard in the gym as he eyes a return to fitness, with our cameras capturing his individual progress as he trained on his own away from the first team."
Man United also posted images of Hojlund working in the gym, with the striker closing in on a timely return for the Red Devils.
Bruno Fernandes has started as a false nine in Man United's opening two games of the new Premier League campaign, but Joshua Zirkzee could lead the line against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.
Head coach Erik ten Hag will be forced to make at least one change from last weekend's 2-1 defeat at Brighton & Hove Albion, as Mason Mount is facing a spell on the sidelines with a muscular problem.
© Reuters
How did Hojlund perform for Man United last season?
Hojlund faced criticism for his initial struggles at Man United after a big-money move from Atalanta BC.
However, a productive 2023-24 campaign saw the striker manage 16 goals in 43 appearances in all competitions, including 10 goals in 30 outings in England's top flight.
Hojlund, who represented Denmark at this summer's European Championship, could now have the chance to add to his Man Untied tally in the clash with Southampton at St Mary's on September 14.
Matt Law
