Christian Eriksen reveals his footballing relationship with Bruno Fernandes

Almost two months on from his arrival to Manchester United, Christian Eriksen has impressed fans with his ability to play in a variety of midfield roles.

Despite many believing when news first broke of Eriksen’s arrival the Denmark international would be competition for United talisman Bruno Fernandes, so far this has been proven to not be the case. 

Instead of fighting for the same position, both Eriksen and Fernandes have started all six Premier League games United have played so far this season, with the two talented midfielders building a budding relationship. 

Speaking recently with United’s media team, United’s new No.14 revealed he believes his relationship with his midfield compatriot is starting to grow.

“Me and Bruno are starting to get to know each other on the pitch and see how we would like to play, pass the ball and the runs we make," said Eriksen. “We try to read each other and give each other options and of course Sunday (against Arsenal) was the perfect link-up to score goals.

“Do we talk on the pitch? Yes we’re trying to,” The Dane commented. “Obviously if someone sees something you try to tell them where and when you expect the ball and where you expect the run. You try to communicate and plan things, but in the end you can’t always do that so you have an idea and you react to the opponent. 

“For me also it’s only been a few games here and I’m still trying to learn about my team-mates and get to know them and get to know how they are as players.”

Alongside Eriksen believing his partnership with Fernandes hit a high point against Arsenal, the midfielder also heaped praise on the Old Trafford atmosphere both against the Gunners, and throughout the season. 

“The atmosphere in general in the whole stadium was just electric (against Arsenal).” Said Eriksen. “Everyone was really on their toes and feeling the game. I think, at the same time, the way we play is also going to transcend to the fans in terms of how we want to play, how we want to press and how we want to give everything, of course. 

 “The support has been great, the fans have been great and when you’re winning games then it’s a big vibe difference.”

Looking back on his time in Manchester so far, Eriksen remarked that he believed the whole squad is getting better, and with the team on a four-game win streak, it has been a joint effort.

Christian Eriksen against Liverpool. (Man Utd)

“It’s been going better and better in every game.” Commented Eriksen. “First of all, I’ve played every position I think in the first two or three games, and now to be a bit more in the same position has been good to be able to develop the game from there. 

 “And I think the team in general has done very well. It’s not only about me; everyone including the guys who have come on (as substitutes) have really tried to give their best when they’re involved.”

Importantly Eriksen revealed that despite nailing down a position in recent weeks, he stated he is still willing to adapt to whatever position new boss Erik ten Hag sees as his best fit:

“I’m probably one of those players who would rather have the ball than go running after it, so I like to get close to the ball and try to open up the game a bit.” 

“At the same time I’ll play wherever the manager puts me and if he sees opportunities in one game in one position then I might play there, I’m not really locked in one position, but I do feel comfortable there for sure.”

With the Red Devils set to be in action two more times this week, it won't be long before Eriksen is pulling on a Manchester United shirt again. 

The club will kick off their Europa League campaign on Thursday night against Real Sociedad, before travelling down south to London for an away trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday.