3 goals, 3 assists: Ten Hag has to start £7m ace if Man Utd star remains injured vs Aston Villa - Opinion

Manchester United face a crucial test against in-form Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.

Erik ten Hag’s future is highly uncertain, and another defeat could see him facing the axe.

The Dutchman could be without Kobbie Mainoo as he nurses a minor hamstring issue.

Ten Hag must start Christian Eriksen if Mainoo is not fit enough to be named in the starting XI.

Eriksen is enjoying a purple patch, bagging three goals and three assists in seven outings this season.

He started in four consecutive games before settling for a place on the bench against Tottenham Hotspur.

Eriksen returned to the team against FC Porto and impressed with his contributions in the final third.

The veteran earned two assists and played a significant role in creating United’s second goal.

His vision and awareness allow him to exploit spaces and create chances for his teammates.

However, having Eriksen in the team is like a double-edged sword. His creativity can ignite the attack, but his defensive vulnerabilities can expose the side.

He is a liability in a two-man midfield when out of possession.

His inability to provide security to the defence leaves the holding midfielder with an excessive burden.

Ten Hag has pushed Diogo Dalot in to midfield when the team has possession.

This allows Eriksen to move further forward and play to his strength. However, this move has exposed United defensively during transitions.

Villa are a dynamic team and could pose a massive threat to United’s defence. If Eriksen starts, he must prioritise his defensive duties.

Stats from sofascore.com & Transfermarkt.com.