Christian Eriksen has spoken out for the first time about his unsuccessful attempt to leave Tottenham this summer despite mass speculation.
Speaking to Danish publication Ekstra Bladet via The Metro, the Spurs playmaker spoke about his frustration in not being able to depart the Premier League side smoothly and claiming that he wished his future could be decided similarly to how transfers are handled in the video game series Football Manager.
BBC Sport reported that Manchester United were in talks with Eriksen in the final day of the English transfer window, however, the report claimed that the Danish playmaker wanted a move to La Liga.
Eriksen said: “No, it wasn’t (to speak out). But it is football and you never know what happens in football. Many things always come into play. I wish I could decide (my future) just like in the Football Manager, but unfortunately, I can’t. I know a lot of people are interested in where to play.
“I understand that well. That’s the way it is. For me, it’s not been hard to clear my head. I don’t read much of what is written. And now I have been involved for many years, where there have been many rumours every year. But it’s clear that it’s been a little more violent this year because my contract is about to expire.”
Eriksen’s current deal with Tottenham expires at the end of this season, with reports from The Daily Mail indicating that Daniel Levy is keen to tie the midfielder down to a new deal by handing the 27-year-old a new contract worth a £200,000-a-week.
Mauricio Pochettino had been adamant to start the Dane in Premier League games this month with speculation about Eriksen’s future rife, however, the Spurs boss bit the bullet last weekend against Arsenal and fielded the playmaker in a game that saw the wantaway midfielder score the opening goal in a 2-2 draw.