Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken about the importance of Christian Eriksen ahead of the Champions League clash against Copenhagen on Tuesday night.

The Red Devils registered their second-straight victory over the weekend. They secured a 2-1 league win over Sheffield United. Diogo Dalot scored the match winner.

Ten Hag will be hoping to continue the run against Copenhagen. Ahead of the game, he was asked about Eriksen, who has not been in the starting XI since September 20.

In response, Ten Hag said that he takes part in every game for the Red Devils and added that he has a big influence on the team when on the pitch with his creativity.

He told Manutd.com: “Definitely [he was on the bench] but he takes part in every game. You see his importance when he is on the pitch he has a big influence on our team by creating. He is a great player, he is a brilliant player and is very important for our squad.”

Eriksen remains a valuable player in the squad

The Denmark international joined the club on a free transfer last season, and he was an undisputed starter from the number eight role until his ankle injury last winter.

Since his injury comeback, he has not looked the same player. The Dane has shown signs of regression and has been slow with his decision-making from the centre of the park.

This could be a reason behind his limited role over recent games. Ten Hag now has more competition for places in midfield after the signings of Sofyan Amrabat and Mason Mount.

Scott McTominay’s form has also been impressive in recent outings which has contributed to Eriksen starting on the bench. Nonetheless, he remains a valuable squad player.

The £150,000-a-week star may need a stand-out performance off the bench similar to McTominay against Brentford to be reinstated into the starting line-up over the forthcoming matches.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com