"We'll have to see this guy on the pitch" - Andre Onana insists 'key player' should be more involved at Manchester United after Crystal Palace draw

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has insisted that Rasmus Hojlund needs to be more involved after his return to fitness. The Denmark international returned to action in the Red Devils' 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday, September 22.

Hojlund was introduced by Erik ten Hag in the 76th minute for Amad Diallo but could not inspire the Red Devils to a victory. Manchester United, despite creating plenty of opportunities, had to settle for just one point at Selhurst Park.

Following the game, Andre Onana insisted that a key player like Rasmus Hojlund returning from injury will be a major boost for the club. He also stressed that the duo of Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw need to be back to fitness soon.

Onana told Sky Sports, as quoted by The Manchester Evening News:

"He's [Hojlund] a key player for us and we are all happy because he's coming back and [Tyrell] Malacia also came back yesterday [trained on Friday], so it's important to have everyone back and then the manager will make the choice and we'll be happy with that."

The former Ajax keeper added:

"We'll have to see this guy on the pitch, but I know he will score important goals for us. We need our guys back, we need Luke Shaw back. I'm happy to see him on the pitch."

Hojlund joined Manchester United from Atalanta in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth a reported £72 million. He enjoyed a mixed first season at Old Trafford, scoring 16 goals and providing two assists in 43 appearances.

The Dane suffered a hamstring injury during pre-season and has just made his return to the first team. The Red Devils also signed Joshua Zirkzee, who will be contending with Hojlund for a place up front, from Bologna this summer.

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Manchester United manager rues missed chances against Crystal Palace

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has lamented his side's missed chances against Crystal Palace. The Red Devils had to settle for a 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park despite creating several big chances throughout the game.

Dean Henderson made many decisive saves to deny his former club, while Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes both hit the woodwork.

Following the game, Ten Hag said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter):

"We should have won. In the first half, we left them alive. We should have scored one or two goals. The second half was more balanced. We have worked very hard as a team to be defensively compact. Also, on the ball we want very good structures and control."

Manchester United have endured a difficult start to the Premier League season, putting Erik ten Hag under a lot of pressure. They have won just two of their opening five games and are currently 11th in the table.