Manchester United’s Christian Eriksen put in a strong performance for his nation as they held on to a 0-0 draw with Serbia.
The stalemate was enough to secure second place in their Nations League Group A behind Spain and they will advance to the quarter finals of the competition.
The Danes had an almost equal share of the ball with 49% but created many less chances, only eight in comparison to the hosts’ 22, as they searched for the win they needed to qualify.
Eriksen has had a surprisingly good start to the season at United with four goals in all competitions, including a crucial strike away to Fenerbahce in the Europa League.
Yesterday he was given a score of 7.3 for his night’s work and played the entire 90 minutes.
The 32 year old had 57 touches and completed 28 out of his 39 passes for a passing accuracy of 72%.
He only found the intended target with one of his six crosses and connected with three of his six long ball attempts.
Eriksen tried to force his way onto the scoresheet with an effort that was off target and also had a shot blocked as he tried in vain to open his nation’s account.
He did complete his one dribble attempt and won three out of his six ground duels.
In a combative display he also showed defensive solidity in a midfield three as he made three interceptions and a total of two tackles as his side kept a vital clean sheet.
There are numerous reports that Eriksen will have no future under Ruben Amorim as the new head coach will prioritise players with “intensity”.
The Dane has also confirmed he has had no contact from the club over a contract extension despite his current deal running out in the summer, so he seems to have some work to do to convince the club he has a place in their future plans.
Nonetheless, it is unlikely that Amorim will have fully made up his mind about any player until he sees them kick a ball in anger, so Eriksen will have hope he can continue to show his national team form for his club side and convince him he can continue to compete at a Premier League level.
Featured image Stuart Franklin via Getty Images
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Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
