Former Denmark Under 17 coach Glen Riddersholm, who is now in charge of SønderjyskE, spoke about his former player Inter midfielder Christian Eriksen in an interview with Italian media outlet FcInterNews yesterday afternoon.
“The first time I saw him play, I immediately thought he was an incredible talent. Not a player like the others, but a future champion, Denmark’s Special One. I never doubted that he could become one of the best players in the world.”
He continued detailing how the Dane quickly managed to establish himself as a strong talent despite his young age.
“He had everything to stand out, ambition, technique, quality, passing and staying on the pitch. So much so that I immediately put him in the starting line-up. Despite the fact that he was 15 years old and playing against 17-year-olds, I was convinced he could make a difference right from the start. And I was right. It only took a couple of games for him to show what he could do.”
Riddersholm highlighted how Inter fans haven’t seen the best of the 28-year-old yet, and that the player will perform significantly better once he has fully adapted.
“You’ve seen little or nothing of Christian yet, he’s just joined the team, he has to adapt and know how to fit into a new context and style of play for him. When everything is settled, you will see a simply extraordinary Eriksen. He’s an introverted player who may not talk a lot, but for him, it’s all about playing with his feet. It will make all the difference in Serie A. Just like he did in the Premier League.”
He commented on Eriksen’s mental strengths and how he succeeded in the Premier League at a young age.
“No doubt about it. Every time he faced a challenge, he overcame it. And easily, too. Just wait for him to adapt and immediately he’ll level up and improve. Christian is particularly appreciated in the world for that too. He is humble but hungry for victories. Introverted but competitive, he wants to achieve his goals, a winner, a man of action who stands out on the field.”
The former Denmark Under 17 coach spoke about Eriksen’s development in regard to free kicks.
“Obviously, he had to train and he improved. But even at 15 he was already very good at striking. In the Denmark Under 17 squad, I gave him the task of scoring penalties and free kicks right from the start.”
Riddersholm believed that Serie A was the best league for Eriksen now.
“Yes, Christian will be one of the stars of Serie A for the next few years.”
He touched on what position works best for the 28-year-old.
“Eriksen is a number 8, with number 10 feet and a number 4 run. He’s got it all, technique and running. We can call it a modern number 10. Able to create goals, but also to help out in the defensive phase.”
The Dane thought that Eriksen may help Inter beat Juventus for the league title next season.
“This year is difficult. But the real challenge will be next season. Juventus remain a very strong team, but the Nerazzurri with Eriksen have secured a real top player.”
Finally, Riddersholm spoke about if the player could win the Ballon d’Or in his career.
“He has the qualities to do it, even if it’s difficult. There are a lot of great players. The trophy also depends on team wins. So, he should do very well at Inter and then at the European Championships. Then there’s a certain Messi who will still be hungry. but yes, Eriksen has the qualities to make it. For me, he’s one of the strongest players in the world.”
The post Ex-Denmark U17 Coach Heaps Praise On Inter’s Christian Eriksen: “Knew He Was A Champion From Day 1” appeared first on Sempreinter.
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