Manchester United striker Rasmus Hjølund has admitted he needs to manage his load carefully following a recent hamstring injury.
The 21-year-old was sent off in the opening game of the United States’ pre-season tour against Arsenal in July and missed the first six games of the season.
He returned to the matchday squad for the first time last month, coming off the bench in the second half of the goalless draw against Crystal Palace, and made his first start against FC Porto in the Europa League last week.
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After converting his chances with a goal against Portugal, he started three days later in a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park, playing a further 64 minutes.
As a result of his recent comeback, he was included in the Denmark squad for the UEFA Nations League double-header against Spain and Switzerland during the international break. He has not appeared for the national team since losing 2-0 to Germany in the last 16 of the European Championship in June.
Despite insisting he is feeling well after overcoming the injury, the striker is mature enough to admit it would not be wise to play the full 90 minutes against Spain in Murcia on Saturday night.
“There’s no point in rushing and risking injury. My body feels good again,” Hoylund told reporters.
“I may be ready to play 90 minutes, but even if I use my head a little bit, I don’t think it’s a good idea to play 90 minutes against Spain on Saturday.”
Hoylund, who scored 16 goals in his first season at United, added: “I’ve lost a bit of weight, but that’s not a problem.”
“I know there are some benefits to being a little lighter and a little heavier. I’m not focused on the scale. I’ve gotten used to the fact that my weight fluctuates a little.”
