Romelu Lukaku: Why isn’t the Manchester United striker celebrating his goals?
Romelu Lukaku scored again in the 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion, his second goal in as many games.
But Manchester United fans were left scratching their heads as Romelu Lukaku once again refused to celebrate his goals. His lack of emotion at Bournemouth raised eyebrows, but the same response to scoring again has people asking questions. Is this something to worry about?
Speaking on Sky Sports, Gary Neville said that Lukaku ‘needs to celebrate.’
"“He needs to celebrate, he absolutely does.”"
Lukaku has had a an uneasy last few months at the club. Since Pogba’s injury in September, Lukaku went on a barren run that had many fans already labeling him a bust. Obviously, those claims were exaggerated. But Lukaku was struggling to involve himself in Pogba’s absence, and he seemd to squander the few chances that fell his way.
The 24-year old striker had a fantastic start to life at Old Trafford. He scored 11 goals in his first 10 games. He’s up to 15 goals now — a great return — but fans and pundits continue to slam Lukaku for his goal drought.
Another criticism of Lukaku is his failure to show up in the big games. It’s true, unfortunately. Against Chelsea and Manchester City he was a liability. He gifted the game to the leaders. It was one of his worst games in a United shirt.
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But Lukaku seems to be back. He’s scored in both games since the Derby loss. He’s frustrated, he’s angry, and he’s finally back to playing his game.
He isn’t forcing the issue, and he’s putting away the chances he’s getting. Sure, he could have scored again against West Brom, but no striker will put every single chance away.
His refusal of celebrating isn’t one of unhappiness. It’s more like a sign to the fans and pundits showing he’s all business at the moment. He’s a goal scorer — he takes pride in his work. He’s ready to shut up the doubters, the haters, and everyone else.
The lack of celebration could be out of respect for his former club. Lukaku used to play for West Brom, but this lack of emotion seemed like something more. He seemed serious — focused.
Lukaku deserves the fans support. The Belgian is the future. He will go through dry-runs, but more oft than not, he’s going to be the striker that almost has 100 Premier League goals before his 25th birthday.
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Rom deserves the fans support. Look at Lingard — the fair-weather fans have loathed the man. But he’s been United’s best player over the past month and is an integral part of the team.
The same goes for Lukaku. He can be the influential man United need up top — and he deserves the fans love and support. The pundits can continue to talk if he keeps on scoring.