CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN has hinted he could reject interest from Manchester United and Tottenham in a bid to play Champions League football.
The Brentford midfielder has been sensational for the newly-promoted outfit since returning to the Premier League in January.
Less than one year after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch at the Euros, Eriksen has played a major role in keeping Thomas Frank’s side in the top flight.
Since his first start for Brentford, the team have claimed 22 points – with only Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester City racking up more in that time.
His impressive form has seen him linked with a move to Old Trafford and a second stint with Spurs – particularly given his six-month deal with Brentford expires in the summer.
But those possible moves have now suffered a blow following comments about wanting to play in the Champions League again.
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Speaking to Viaplay, he said: “I do not think that there are some football players who can just pick and choose between clubs, because there are many criteria that come into play.
“There are also many clubs that need to see one’s path before that happens.
“I have different offers and options, which we are considering, and then we make a decision.
“I would love to play Champions League football again. I know how much fun it is, but it isn’t essential for me.”
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Man Utd have already missed out on qualification for next season’s Champions League.
They currently occupy a Europa League spot, but could drop down to the Europa Conference League if they fail to beat Crystal Palace on the final day and West Ham win at Brighton.
Meanwhile, Spurs are fourth but require Arsenal to slip up against either Newcastle or Everton in order to keep hold of the final Champions League place.
Antonio Conte’s men also need to win their last game of the campaign away at Norwich.
But a fourth place finish would significantly boost Spurs’ chances of securing Eriksen’s return.
Speaking about him after Brentford’s 3-2 win over Everton, Frank said: “There is still more to come from him.
“Maybe not 10 top crosses a game, but more sharpness in the big moments. He’s at a good level now but the last bit will take some time.
“For me [signing Eriksen] was not a gamble. I was convinced he could help us and that he could be the best signing ever for Brentford.
“It was not an injury, it was a heart condition. So he wouldn’t have lost any speed or anything. There’s a mental issue but when he decided he wanted to play that was it.”