Christian Eriksen made his first appearance in front of Manchester United fans in Oslo on Saturday, and almost made an immediate impact.
Just moments after taking to the pitch for the first time as a Manchester United player, Christian Eriksen nearly produced a sublime assist which would have been the ultimate introduction.
Picking the ball up on the left hand side, Eriksen sent an excellent ball flying across the box which took out Atlético Madrid’s entire defence and almost gave Anthony Elanga a completely free header.
Advert
It certainly excited the fans. It was a preview to the Dane’s excellent final ball that has seen him rack up 66 Premier League assists since joining the league in 2013.
Eriksen’s ability to serve up a killer pass from all areas of the pitch has been his standout quality for years now, and whilst he is past his peak the fact it is still so dangerous is a positive sign.
Had Elanga gotten on the end of his pass, it would almost certainly have resulted in a goal. All the attacker would have needed to do would be to get the ball on target, and Oblak would not have stood a chance.
A few minutes after this pass, the 30-year-old created another assist worthy ball from a corner. Eriksen delivered an inch-perfect pass onto Harry Maguire’s head.
Yet somehow, the Englishman completely missed the target from the free header. Whilst unexplainable how United didn’t have a goal, Eriksen’s delivery was once again a standout.
Advert
The fact it was from a corner in particular was refreshing. United have struggled with deliveries from corners in recent times, often not failing to even beat the first man.
The Dane ended the game having been one of United’s best players, despite just being on the pitch for 20 minutes in total.
It is not surprising that Thomas Frank feels Brentford cannot replace his fellow countryman. Eriksen’s quality was on display immediately from his entrance onto the pitch and it never faded.
Advert
The pass to Elanga felt particularly refreshing. For all of Bruno Fernandes’ quality, he is prone to forcing these passes sometimes.
Also, Bruno’s delivery can be inconsistent, which is not the case with Eriksen. Whilst he may not create as much in volume, Eriksen's delivery is superior to Fernandes.
This could, and should, force improvement from United’s number eight which can only be a good thing for the team.
Should the Portuguese midfielder not improve in this aspect, then United have a quality player ready to step in if he requires dropping.
Advert
Bruno Fernandes has been prone to having poor performances in the past, with the frequency of these performances increasing in recent months.
He is one of United’s best players, but should not be untouchable. Eriksen’s final ball is arguably the best at the club, and Erik ten Hag should take advantage of this quality he possesses to rotate effectively.
The playmaker is also able to operate in a deeper role, doing so often in Inter Milan’s 2020/21 title winning season. In the past he has operated out wide for Spurs.
Advert
This quality and versatility is part of what makes him such an excellent signing for United, and his quality will almost certainly shine through across the season.
Featured Image Credit: Manchester UnitedTopics: Manchester United, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes, Atletico Madrid, Erik Ten Hag, Harry Maguire