Carrick praises ‘intelligent’ Eriksen
Search the phrase ‘calm and composed midfielder,’ on the web and you’ll probably find an image of Manchester United legend Michael Carrick next to it.
During his playing days, Carrick oozed class in the middle of the park, pulling the strings much like the composer of an orchestra.
Since his retirement in 2018, United have had a number of midfielders, but few have matched the nonchalant composure with which Carrick governed the central areas. That was, until Christian Eriksen arrived at the club this summer.
The Denmark international began his career as a no.10, but has been utilised by manager Erik ten Hag in a deeper role this season, drawing comparisons with the likes of Carrick and another United great, Paul Scholes.
Such has been Eriksen’s form, the Dane was voted our Player of the Month for September by the United fanbase.
Player of the Month revealed
ArticleChristian Eriksen has won September's award after topping our fan poll by a big margin.
Following the second leg of the Legends of the North charity match at Anfield on Saturday, when Carrick made his debut for our team, the former England international heaped praise on United’s new midfield maestro.
“I’m not surprised one bit [by Eriksen’s form],” he said. “I played against him a lot; I watched him a lot. I like him a lot.
“He’s a fantastic footballer. He’s clever, he’s smart.”
Carrick has also been impressed with Eriksen’s versatility, having played in different midfield roles for United already, as well as being used as a false-nine in our opening match of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion.
“It almost doesn’t matter what position he plays,” said the former Red. “He can adapt. He’s just a clever, intelligent footballer with great quality.
“I was pleased when we signed him, and he’s not surprised me one bit.
“He’s a top player.”
On a personal level, Eriksen has enjoyed a fruitful stay with Denmark's national team during the ongoing international break.
The 30-year-old scored a beauty, albeit in a 2-1 defeat to Croatia last Thursday, before pulling the strings in an excellent 2-0 triumph over France, creating an incredible eight scoring chances against the current world champions.
The two countries will meet again, in Group D of the World Cup finals, on 26 November.