Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen made a satisfying return to the European Championships at the weekend.
Christian Eriksen’s previous memory of the European Championships was three years ago when he came close to losing his life.
A lot has happened since. His contract at Inter Milan was cut short. He signed with Brentford. And then he spent two seasons with Manchester United, winning two trophies.
Still under contract to United, the tale of his glorious comeback has begun to fade in recent months, replaced with the feeling that this is a star on the wane, his best years behind him.
So it was especially pleasing for the 32-year-old to step back onto the international stage at Euro 2024 and contribute a big performance.
Christian Eriksen fires back at criticism
Christian Eriksen had a difficult season at Old Trafford, making only 12 Premier League starts. He made 25 the previous year – and this was while missing two full months through injury.
This has led to plenty of discussion about Eriksen’s role in the Denmark team, and whether he should continue to be an automatic starter.
Danish expert Martin Mikkelsen told TV2: “It will not be an advantage for Denmark if Christian Eriksen starts tonight,” ahead of the Slovenia game.
He added: “It would make sense to give him a wildcard role tonight as a substitute,” citing his lack of recent football at Manchester United.
Eriksen was asked about this viewpoint, after his country’s 1-1 draw with Slovenia in which he scored.
Eriksen told Tipsbladet: “Let him watch the match again,” before smiling and boarding the team bus.
The United midfielder created seven chances and attempted five shots at goal – the first midfielder to have such an impact in a game at a European Championships since 2012.
Lots of work still to do
Christian Eriksen has begun his own tournament well, but Slovenia got back into the game and forced a draw. They might feel they could have won, with Benjamin Sesko hitting the post.
Denmark play England next, and then Serbia, and the failure to grab all three points against Slovenia has put Eriksen and co under pressure.
Another player looking for a spark is Rasmus Hojlund, who is looking for his first goals for his country in 2024.
The Danish media noted his tireless work, but also commented that he did not really look threatening in their opener.
There are no calls for Hojlund to be dropped – but perhaps with Eriksen, something like that may fire him up.