In a recent report, The Northern Echo mentioned that Newcastle United are in a losing race for Brentford midfielder Christian Eriksen who is set to become a free agent at the end of this month. It has been revealed that the Magpies are trailing Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in the chase to secure the services of the Danish midfield ace this summer.
Eriksen’s Impressive Spell At The Brentford Community Stadium Last Season
Eriksen proved his worth as an influential presence at the heart of Brentford’s midfield in the second half of last season. The Middelfart-born talent found the back of the net once and secured four assists in 11 league matches in the previous campaign.
The 115-time Denmark international caught the eye by averaging 1.2 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.1 clearances, 2.0 shots, 2.7 key passes, 3.0 crosses and 0.7 dribbles per game in Premier League football. He even distributed the ball relatively well from midfield after making 80.9% of his attempted passes in the English top tier (stats via whoscored).
Newcastle United Are In Losing Battle For Eriksen: What Should Be Eddie Howe’s Play?
Eriksen remains an excellent playmaker in the opposition half as he has got the eye to cut open the opposition defence with a decisive pass. He can strike the ball with power from long range and is a good crosser of the ball as well.
The Denmark international also works hard to provide adequate protection for his teammates at the back. Thus, he would be a terrific acquisition for the Magpies if they can somehow manage to get him on board this summer.
However, without European football on offer at St. James’ Park, Newcastle will find it difficult to compete with Man United and Spurs in the race to land Eriksen this off-season. The Danish midfield enforcer has got the skillset and winning mindset to help the Magpies compete for a major trophy in the coming seasons.
For now, Eddie Howe would be wise to focus his attention on some of his other realistic midfield targets ahead of what could be a make-or-break season for him at Tyneside. However, if an opportunity presents itself, Newcastle should be ready to pounce on Eriksen this summer as he could be a great asset for them in the short run.
