Christian Eriksen wishes to play in the Champions League
Christian Eriksen has expressed his desire to play Champions League football again next season. The Brentford man, who signed for Thomas Frank’s side on a six-month contract in the bid to regain full fitness after a life-threatening cardiac arrest suffered during Euro 2020, is on the radar of some big clubs.
The Bees’ decision to lure Eriksen was not just a publicity stunt, it was more like a heart-warming gesture to accommodate one of the best playmakers in Europe and allow him to get back to his best whilst fighting for survival in the Premier League.
Fair to say, with 37 odd games played, Brentford have escaped the scrap at the bottom and now sit comfortably in 11th place. That wasn’t necessarily the case a couple of months ago. Brentford were just three points clear of 18th (Everton) but have salvaged 16 valuable points from their last seven outings. Only Manchester City have mustered more during that span.
It’s no coincidence that Eriksen has played the full 90 minutes in each of those games, recording three assists and a well-earned goal as well.
What’s truly wonderful to see is not just the numbers, but his influence on the rest of the Brentford roster. Eriksen is a player that needs space, touches, and the authority to orchestrate proceedings. He’s doing just that for Frank’s side as they prepare for a second season in the Premier League following their promotion.
Eriksen, though, will be sorely missed by them despite his short stay. Still only 30, the Denmark international has a lot to offer at the top level. He’s pulling the strings regularly at the Brentford Community Stadium – and with better technicians in front, he could still be a handful for defenders.
Without a doubt, his former club Tottenham Hotspur are in the race for his signature. It’s a place where he’s fondly remembered, and working under a coach he has experience with is an appealing proposition. Manchester United are in the mix as well, with other clubs poised to enter the frame come summer. Staying at Brentford is another option, but unlikely because he wants to play in the UCL.
Speaking about his next destination, Eriksen remarked:
“I do not think that there are some football players who can just pick and choose between clubs, because there are many criteria that come into play. There are also many clubs that need to see one’s path before that happens. I have different offers and options, which we are considering, and then we make a decision.”
Eriksen continued:
“I would love to play Champions League football again. I know how much fun it is, but it isn’t essential for me.”
His manager believes he still has plenty left in the tank. Without question, Eriksen has been one of the best January transfers of the season.
-Akarshak Roy
Twitter: @RoyAkarshak
Photo: Chris 0023. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.