In a thrilling Premier League encounter on Sunday, Manchester United hosted West Ham United at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils started brightly, with young attacker Rasmus Hojlund opening the scoring in the 23rd minute.
After receiving a through pass from Casemiro, the Danish forward dribbled past a couple of defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner, marking his fourth consecutive Premier League appearance with a goal.
The home side doubled their lead early in the second half, with Alejandro Garnacho’s shot from the edge of the box taking a deflection off a West Ham defender and finding the back of the net.
The Argentine forward, who was making his fifth appearance for the first team, added a second goal in the 84th minute to seal the victory for Manchester United.
Speaking after the game, United manager Erik ten Hag praised his young players, saying that the future of the club is bright.
“We have some real high potential, we can play fluid football, speed it up as we need, and defend well,” he said.
“The goals today showed young players with high potential. In every game, they are growing and improving and adapting to a higher level. When they enjoy their football the confidence comes and you can see the belief is growing.”
Hojlund, who turned 21 on the day of the match, was delighted to mark his birthday with a goal and praised his strike partner Garnacho.
READ ALSO: https://thecrux.org.ng/epl-wolves-stuns-chelsea-4-2-at-stamford-bridge-with-cunhas-hattrick/
“A month ago there was a lot of talk about us not scoring enough goals but we are both young and growing every day. You can see the connection between us.”
Manchester United’s win sees them climb above West Ham United into sixth place in the Premier League table, with 38 points from 23 games.
The Hammers, who had won their previous three league games, drop to seventh with 36 points.
Despite the victory, there was some concern for United as Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez was forced off with an apparent knee injury in the second half.
“We have to find out in the next days what the diagnosis is,” Ten Hag said.
“It is very bad, very bad for him and the team. He is just returning. He is very important for us. He brings spirit to the team, aside from his football ability.”
Overall, it was an impressive performance from Manchester United, who have now scored 11 goals in their last three games.
The young players in the team continue to impress, and the future looks bright for the Red Devils under the guidance of Erik ten Hag.
