The Spurs player advertising himself for a January move – opinion
NORWICH, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 28: Christian Eriksen of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates with teammate Giovani Lo Celso after scoring his team's first goal from a free-kick during the Premier League match between Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur at Carrow Road on December 28, 2019 in Norwich, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
A frustration for Spurs fans this season has been the seemingly absent spirit and faith shown by particular players in the squad – players who were so crucial to building belief of a title challenge or a Champions League success in seasons gone by.
Christian Eriksen has been accused of losing some of the passion that Tottenham supporters expect all their players to possess, especially while now being overseen by the managerial expertise of Jose Mourinho.
Eriksen scored one of Spurs’ two equalisers against Norwich in the Lilywhite’s final fixture of 2019 – only his second goal from a direct free-kick since a Champions League goal in February of 2018. The Dane’s elated celebration following this goal seemed genuine, suggesting that he may still have a part to play in Tottenham’s future.
However, Eriksen’s form for the most part this season has been below par, with just two league assists to his name, compared to his tally of twelve last season. As Mourinho entered the fray, Eriksen’s contribution was phased out so much so that he became more of an impact sub than a starter for the team.
The January transfer window could bring an opportunity for Eriksen to seek pastures new. The 27-year-old may have some European giants in his sights and he has clearly picked up his form since Mourinho took the job at Spurs. But is the playmaker flaunting his talents to acquire attention from the top clubs around Europe?
One cannot blame Eriksen for doing such a thing. He has been in North London for over six years and has no trophy accolades to complement his time at Spurs. There are likely many other clubs who will pay higher wages to the midfielder while likely offering a greater opportunity for domestic and European success.
However, now having the experience of playing under one of the most decorated managers of all time, Eriksen may want to hold his horses for a while longer and the recent flurry of good form could be a statement from Eriksen that his time is not up at Tottenham.
Ultimately, Mourinho will be the one to make the decision. Defensive problems have plagued the Spurs squad and an influx of money from selling Eriksen could help Mourinho fund the solution to these issues.