A recent snapshot from the Danish training camp showed an ex-Liverpool player battling it out with a current Manchester United player in practice.
Rasmus Hojlund was seen grappling it out with Liverpool legend Daniel Agger.
In the photo, Hojlund, the young Danish striker, is seen backing into Agger while the ex-defender has his arms around Hojlund’s torso, both engaged in a lively tussle as Hojlund tugs on Agger’s tracksuit bottoms.
The image sparked conversation as to how the two were together in training, with many struggling to believe it was actually Daniel Agger.
Agger, a beloved Liverpool figure known for his powerful defending and leadership on the field, has recently taken up a coaching role as part of Denmark’s national team setup under interim manager Morten Wieghorst.
Agger’s career with Liverpool spanned eight years, where he became a fan favorite for his gritty, uncompromising style and his smooth ball-playing abilities. With 232 appearances and 14 goals for the Reds, including a memorable long-range screamer against Blackburn, Agger cemented himself as a cult hero.
After retiring in 2016 and a brief coaching stint at HB Koge, Agger returned to the national team fold as Wieghorst’s assistant, ready to share his defensive expertise and veteran experience with Denmark’s younger talents.
Hojlund’s call-up to Danish national side comes amidst a run of poor form for Manchester United even though they are seeing a slight improvement as a team.
Hojlund has struggled to find consistency at United and was somewhat lackluster in his recent outing against Leicester City. He managed only one shot, 23 touches, and was dispossessed three times.
His teammates were reportedly frustrated with his lack of movement and impact, underscoring the need for the young forward to refine his skills and find his rhythm.
The timing of the camp and Agger’s arrival might be fortuitous for Hojlund amidst all his struggles.
Agger’s presence in the training camp could provide Hojlund with the encouragement and mentorship needed to reset and refocus on his development. Agger has the ability to provide the important inputs a strong and big striker like Hojlund might need while combating defenders.
It was also interesting to see Agger still looking fit and formidable at 39, going toe-to-toe with a forward almost half his age. The sight of the ex-Liverpool captain engaging physically with Hojlund is a testament to the defender’s coaching style and willingness to get involved in training sessions with he players.
Agger might be the spark Hojlund needs in an ever competitive landscape at Manchester United with the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese has done wonders working with one Scandinavian striker in Victor Gyokeres, it’ll be interesting to see if he brings about the same change in Hojlund or he utilises other options in the squad.
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