Saturday’s PL fixture between Norwich and Brentford at Carrow Road saw Christian Eriksen make his first competitive start since facing heart problems at the Euros a year ago. This was not Eriksen’s debut for the Bees as he did come off the bench for a 38-minute cameo during their previous outing against Newcastle, to a standing ovation from the Brentford faithful.
The Danish international’s arrival was expected to help improve the Bees’ transition play and offer more control in the middle of the park. The early signs suggest that he is on his way to doing just that. Eriksen had the most touches by any Brentford player on the pitch at 67, as well as the highest passing accuracy at 82.6% (WhoScored).
There was certain ease with which the Dane went about his business, not showing any signs of having difficulties with easing himself back into the intensity of top-flight football. He was also frequently spotted fighting it out with Norwich players to win back possession. One of these instances saw him clashing with left-back Brandon Williams, who too showed that he was up for the fight by bringing Eriksen down. However, upon finding out the identity of the class player he had brought down with no class, Williams quickly cooled down and embraced Eriksen.
Brandon Williams, the left-back on loan from Manchester United to Norwich. After being knocked down by the Dane, the young player wanted to physically attack his opponent before realizing the identity of his opponent. He then changed his mind to give the miraculous Eriksen a hug. pic.twitter.com/AGzeQ1JXd6
— Manuel Menacho (@ManuelMenacho0) March 5, 2022
When Brandon Williams sees it’s Eriksen…❤️ pic.twitter.com/zQVdenfOSO
— Beth Fisher 🌻 (@BethFisherSport) March 5, 2022
The 21-year-old who is currently on loan from Manchester United is known for his aggressive playing style having picked up 7 yellow cards already this season. But the intensity that he brings to the pitch, as put on display against Eriksen is what Norwich need right now as they hope for a miracle that would prevent them from achieving relegation once again.
However, Williams’ quick change in reaction shows he knows how to treat the opposition the right way with Eriksen having been a star of the Premier League during Williams’ academy years.
Fans of both sides have surely enjoyed the tussle between the two that defines competitiveness in top-flight football and Williams respecting a legend of the game in many ways.
As Jose Mourinho once famously called it, “this is football heritage.”
