95% pass accuracy, 4 chances created: Man United’s unexpected hero vs Brentford after playing time demands

Manchester United had one unexpected hero against Brentford on the weekend after he made playing time demands earlier in the season.

The Reds secured a 2-1 victory against Brentford on Saturday afternoon, despite conceding the opening goal just before half-time.

Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund netted in the second half, earning a crucial three points for Erik ten Hag’s side.

Christian Eriksen provided yet another solid performance in the victory over the Bees. He provided stability in possession, completing 41 passes at a 95% completion rate.

However, the 32-year-old also showed his attacking qualities, creating four chances for his teammates and playing six passes into the final third.

The Dane also won four out of seven duels on the afternoon, in what was a well-rounded display from the former Tottenham Hotspur man.

Following that win, Eriksen has now started eight of the last nine fixtures for United. He has suddenly become an important player for Ten Hag again.

It was widely expected that the playmaker would depart the club in the summer. Once it was clear he wouldn’t be leaving, many believed he would be utilised as a rotation player.

However, due to various factors, Eriksen has found himself starting games consistently and he has been one of United’s more impressive performers in recent weeks.

This follows on from comments earlier in the season, where Eriksen claimed that he wanted to be starting more games at Old Trafford this season.

“I want to play more! I want to play something more,” Eriksen told Tipsbladet during the international break last month.

“I just think that the last thing is missing. I think there were a couple of times where I could have done a little better in one way or another. But the body is fine, and there are no flaws.”

With Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Toby Collyer all out of action currently, Eriksen will continue to get chances to impress in the coming weeks and will want to cement his place in the lineup.

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