3. Christian Eriksen has been studying Luka Modric
We may be watching a profound shift in Christian Eriksen’s career. Up until now, he’s always wanted to play as an attacking number 10. Lately though, he’s looked more comfortable playing further back in the formation.
That move can’t help but conjure reminders of the way Luka Modric played in the midfield for Spurs. Like Eriksen, he isn’t the most physical midfielder in Europe, but he can control the match with his passing.
I’m not expecting to see Eriksen transition fully into a defensive midfielder anytime soon, but it’s nice to know he has the flexibility to play there if need be. More importantly, it means he can play a deeper role than Tottenham’s other attacking midfielders. That should create a lot of space for players like Alli, Lamela and Son.
Perhaps I just want to see Eriksen become the next Modric, but it really seems as if he’s taking a cue from the Real Madrid star. At the very least, it’s something to watch as the season progresses.