Man Utd player admits he's 'unhappy' at club as private Erik ten Hag discussions revealed
"Of course, you can be concerned in the long run because I want to play as much as possible."
A Manchester United player has told Erik ten Hag he's 'unhappy' with his lack of playing time this season.
It's been a tough season for United, who currently sit sixth in the Premier League with Champions League qualification looking unlikely.
The Red Devils have had to cope with long-term injuries to several first-team players.
Veteran star Casemiro missed the festive period with a hamstring strain, while summer arrival Mason Mount made his first appearance since November in Sunday's 4-3 win over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
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Those absences have allowed Kobbie Mainoo to establish himself at Old Trafford. The 18-year-old has played 20 games this term, offering United a different presence in the middle of the park.
Mainoo's emergence means Christian Eriksen has played a more bit-part role, something the Denmark international isn't pleased with.
Eriksen joined United from Brentford on a free transfer in 2022, starring alongside Casmeiro and Bruno Fernandes en route to United finishing third and winning the Carabao Cup last season.
He's featured 21 times this term, although only 11 of those have been starts.
Eriksen told Danish outlet Tipsbladet he's had conversations with Ten Hag surrounding his involvement.
He explained: "I have previously stated that I am not satisfied with not playing, but it’s not something that keeps me up at night.
"The team is performing, and I must respect the role you have alongside. For my part, it has been about working hard and focusing on being fresh for every game, and I am. It is easier now to accept my role than it would have been before."
Eriksen continued: "I have had a conversation with Erik about being unhappy with the situation and wanting to play as much as possible, but I am available and need to be available for the team, which I am and always will be.
"He said it was the team he had chosen, and Kobbie is doing well, and the rest of the midfield is also performing well, so there is competition for places, which is expected when playing for a top club. There is great competition within the team."
The 32-year-old later admitted he respects Ten Hag's decision. He concluded: "Of course, you can be concerned in the long run because I want to play as much as possible. Naturally, you don’t want to always sit on the bench.
"I don’t have that approach to it, but it’s not something that worries me right now.
"Often, when you change teams and win, you don’t change the winning team, and I respect that."
Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Christian Eriksen, Premier League
Daniel Marland