Christian Eriksen opens up on Man United signing Mason Mount as pair set to compete for position

Christian Eriksen has explained that Manchester United’s new signing Mason Mount ‘feels at home’ already as the pair are set to compete for a place in Erik ten Hag’s line-up.

Eriksen, 30, was signed on a free transfer by the Old Trafford club this time last season as part of a new-look midfield alongside Casemiro, who joined from Real Madrid.

The Danish midfielder scored two goals and assisted 10 in his debut campaign at United. However, there were doubts about his defensive contribution in the midfield.

In contrast, Mount offers a much better profile out of possession and can display quality on the ball too. He is expected to take Eriksen’s place in the side at the beginning of the new Premier League season.

The Dane, who will of course battle for a position in the lineup, has explained how his competitor has settled into the club during his first weeks.

“I think he’s been taken very good care of,” explained United’s no.14 to MUTV. “I think he’s felt at home. I think, already, he doesn’t seem like he’s that new. I think he mingles in very well and fits in and is playing well.

“I mean I think everyone knows his qualities and he’s definitely a player that will add to our team in a very positive way. I definitely hope he will bring that [experience] and I’m sure he will. He’s been in finals and he’s won them. So that’s what you want to be as a footballer. Now the aim is he can win something with us as well.”

Perhaps the pair will be on the pitch at the same time on occasion. Eriksen replaced the injured Kobbie Mainoo early on against Real Madrid so that the two lined up alongside each other.

Eriksen was on set-piece duty for the most part of last term, but Mount has been taking corners and free-kicks in pre-season so far.

Asked whether there will be a battle get on dead-ball duties next season, Eriksen smiled and responded: “There will be loads on free-kicks this season, I think! I think we need to get some more free-kicks this season.

“But no, he’s definitely a very good kicker of the ball and, definitely, we’ll [have to] see whoever’s playing, whoever’s on the pitch. I’m sure we’ll find out who’s in the best position to take a free-kick.”