Romelu Lukaku has blamed the World Cup for his current struggles at Manchester United.
Lukaku said he had to lose a muscle before joining the club from international duties in Russia and also pointed out to a different style by both his club and international managers to his struggles in front of goal. His goal against Fulham was his first at Old Trafford since March. He was also on target against Southampton where they drew 2-2.
"It was at the World Cup. I just felt great and I think I played great over there, and then when I came back it is a different type of style. In the Premier League, I cannot play with the same amount of muscle as international football. That was something that, when I came back, I knew straight away: 'Nah, Nah, I cannot play in this style like this. I had to lose muscle, basically. So you just stay out of the gym, drink a lot of water, and a lot of veg and fish and it helps.†Lukaku told ESPN.
Conversations
The former Chelsea and Everton forward defended his relationship with Jose Mourinho after he was dropped in a number of matches and said they enjoy a cordial relationship.
“Me and the manager [Jose Mourinho] had good conversations in the last couple of days, where really he told me what he wanted from me. I know from my side I have to do better, and I just keep looking forward and improving, trying to add to my game and help the team to win.†Lukaku added.
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"I played with not enough aggression, I think. I think I played with intensity like everybody else did [against Fulham]. For me, I was happy to play at a decent level again and now it's all about improving and continuing on a consistent basis. I had the same thing in 2014 after the World Cup when I came back to Everton, I was really in a slump. So now I think I am at a decent level again and ready to go again," the Belgian concluded as he praised their play against Fulham where they won 4-1.