boss says has not trained enough to start against , insisting a side with Anthony Martial leading the line ‘has been successful many times’.
Hojlund, who joined United from Atalanta in a £72million deal this summer, has not featured for his new side due to a back problem.
but was left out of the starting XI at the Emirates on Sunday with Martial preferred up front, flanked either side by Marcus Rashford and Antony.
. While he will start the game among the subs, ten Hag has backed Hojlund to contribute on Sunday.
‘We’re really looking forward to this,’ ten Hag said.
‘It’s a top game and we have to be good, we know that, but we like those challenges and we have to rise to the occasion. This line-up has been successful many times.
‘Sergio is just in, one team training, and Rasmus Hojlund has had one week of training, but he doesn’t have game practice so far with us this season.
‘It’s best to start on the bench and he can come on. He’s really hungry.
‘That’s what we saw in his character when we scouted him. We are sure he will contribute, but it’s not about 11 players, it’s about the squad.
‘As a club we have to deal with injuries and Arsenal have good players. It’s all about taking the three points.’
With United struggling for goals outside of Marcus Rashford’s 30-goal contribution last season, there is already pressure on Hojlund to hit the ground running.
‘What you can expect from me is hard work and a guy who really wants to perform and help the team,’ he told Sky Sports ahead of kick-off. ‘I want to die for this logo.
‘It’s a good combination to perform but you never know. It’s a new beginning and I hope I can hit the ground running but let’s see.
‘It’s a new league, you have to focus on all the things around the pitch – new teammates, new environment. Maybe it’ll take a little bit of time but I know I’m going to get there.’
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