Eriksen is “nowhere near” world class De Bruyne, insists Sherwood
Tim Sherwood says Christian Eriksen is “nowhere near” the level of world class Kevin De Bruyne following the 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Tottenham.
De Bruyne, who captained the Premier League champions in David Silva’s absence, shone as he produced two stunning assists to put City in front on two occasions.
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However, they were pegged back as Spurs left the Etihad with a point that never looked like coming, but Eriksen – heavily linked with a move away from the north London club – failed to complete the full 90 minutes.
Having made a 27-minute cameo in the Lilywhites’ opening weekend 3-1 win over Aston Villa, the Danish playmaker started in Manchester, but was outshone by De Bruyne who endured an injury plagued campaign last season.
The contrast in performance between Eriksen and De Bruyne was enough for ex-Spurs boss Sherwood to make an unequivocal declaration and although he previously coached the former Ajax midfielder, it’s clear for him only one of the pair can be deemed world class.
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“We talked about Eriksen before the game and how important he is to Tottenham, and we think he’s a world class player, if you’re talking of world class, he’s nowhere near the level of this kid,” he told Optus Sport.
“This kid Kevin De Bruyne is top, he could play anywhere in the world, he is the most valuable player at this moment in time for Manchester City.
“He pops up everywhere. He’s so important to this side, they won the league last season without him for a large portion, that is a huge plus. He keeps himself fit, I don’t see anyone stopping him, he is unbelievable.”
Battle of the playmakers: Five key things to know…
- Eriksen joined Spurs from Ajax in 2013 and two years later Man City signed De Bruyne from Wolfsburg.
- Both have since been among the finest creators in the Premier League.
- Eriksen has created 60 goals across 208 top-flight matches.
- De Bruyne, meanwhile, has bagged 49 assists in 123 games.
- However, so far this season De Bruyne leads 3-0.
