Named in the starting XI alongside 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, Christian faced the tough prospect of grappling with Villa’s physically and technically imposing midfield trio of Ross Barkley, Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers.
But any fears proved unfounded, as the 32-year-old – like his elder defensive colleague, Jonny Evans – used his intelligence and expertise to steer the Reds to a respectable, hard-fought away point.
It continued a fine start to the season for Eriksen, who has scored three times and started six of United’s games so far in 2024/25. It’s fair to say the first team have been navigating choppy waters during the early weeks of the new season, so it’s little surprise that Eriksen’s experience and calmness have come to the fore.