This article is part of Football FanCast’s The Chalkboard series, which provides a tactical insight into teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Christian Eriksen turned in a brilliant display after coming off the bench for Tottenham Hotspur against Olympiacos in the Champions League.
On the chalkboard
Jose Mourinho made a ruthless change during the first-half of the clash, with Spurs 2-0 down.
Eric Dier was sacrificed and the Denmark international was introduced in his stead.
The substitution proved to be the correct one, too, as Eriksen was in game-changing form.
He had 59 touches of the ball, registered three key passes and had a passing accuracy of 80%, per WhoScored.
Not only that, but he also provided a genuinely world-class assist for Harry Kane to score his second and Spurs’ fourth goal of the night, sending a brilliant free-kick into the area for the England international to nod in.
Per WhoScored, Eriksen also won one aerial duel while also taking a set-piece that whistled just wide of the post.
The required influence
Spurs needed a creator who could come on and serve up the chances to Kane and Eriksen did just that.
While Mourinho’s substitution of Dier may have seemed harsh at the time, it was proven to be the correct choice, as the Dane caused problems for Olympiacos from his position in attacking midfield, repeatedly looking to split the defence and create a chance.
There are other players, such as Giovani Lo Celso and Dele Alli, who can do that role for Spurs but Eriksen is a master of his craft when he is on form and when he is motivated.
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Prior to Mourinho’s arrival, he had recorded just one assist but his one on Tuesday was sumptuous, while his overall display points towards a potential renaissance for a player who has previously been so key for his club.
With his contract expiring in the summer, it remains to be seen if he will stick around but whether he does or not, Spurs need him to continue in this vein.
Meanwhile, Eriksen’s future may have been sealed following Mourinho’ comments…