When he arrived in July, it wasn’t initially clear just how big a role Christan Eriksen would play at Manchester United. He spent the latter half of last season on loan at Brentford and was crucial to the Bees' success, returning one Premier League goal, four assists and a host of standout displays.
Brentford wanted to tie him down on a new long-term deal in the summer, however, his head was quickly turned when United declared their interest. For many, that interest from the Red Devils came as a surprise.
Eriksen had of course worked with Ten Hag previously, training with his Ajax side as part of his return to football following his cardiac arrest while playing for Denmark last year.