Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen has had some much needed game time for Denmark over the international break.
The first three games of the season are always a little tricky for fringe players. With no midweek games, there is little need to rotate, and Christian Eriksen is among the players to feel the sharp end of this.
Eriksen has played just four minutes of action over United’s opening three matches. His situation was described as ‘upsetting’ by former Danish star Thomas Gravesen.
Denmark’s two international games have come at a good time for Eriksen, who is still a starter for his country. For now.
Christian Eriksen performance
Christian Eriksen started last week in Denmark’s 2-0 win over Switzerland. He was substituted just after an hour, and he was annoyed, with his manager explaining he wanted to save him for their next game.
Eriksen was selected from the start as Denmark took on Serbia in a Euro 2024 re-match, and he was on the pitch for both goals as his side won 2-0.
Once again he was substituted, lasting 68 minutes, making 53 touches in total.
Eriksen created three chances, but only completed 78 per cent of his passes. He failed to win either of the two tackles he competed for.
Danish outlet Bold.dk was not impressed with his display. While noting he was occasionally threatening from set pieces, they noted there was something missing.
Eriksen was graded just a 3/10 for his performance, which was in part attributed to his lack of Manchester United action.
Their report noted: “How rusty he looks. Eriksen is usually the offensive focal point, but now you have the feeling that he is coming to a standstill.
“Wasted turnovers and simply too many wrong decisions. The lack of playing time at Manchester United leaves its mark.”
Tipsbladet tried to look on the bright side, giving him a 3/5, commenting: “There are still glimmers of stardust over Christian Eriksen, but it was nowhere near his best international game. On a positive note, it is certain that the midfielder has been given some playing time.”
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Christian Eriksen will get a chance
Christian Eriksen will likely get more of a chance to show what he can do for Manchester United over the coming month.
United have a Carabao Cup game against Barnsley which will see some squad rotation.
The Europa League campaign also kicks off later in the month, with the gruelling Thursday to Sunday schedule getting underway.
United’s squad will be put to the test, and Eriksen’s decision to stay at United could end up benefitting the team.
Eriksen’s two international appearances might not have been perfect – but by sharpening him up, they may have done Erik ten Hag a favour.
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