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"You should have signed for a big club" was the taunt from the Brentford fans towards Christian Eriksen as this nightmare in solar slime unfolded for Manchester United.

He did, of course. But at the worst possible time.

Because of everything he has been through - and his obvious quality as a footballer - it is difficult to feel anything other than fondness for the stylish Dane, to wish him well in whatever he attempts in what remains of his career and his life. For we know how close both came to being taken away.

All of that made the taunts of the Brentford supporters - a group of people who idolised him for five months of this calendar year - a little jarring on the ears, although in reality they were just a reminder of how this sport we all love can change. Supporters' idols can become enemies, and 'big' clubs fall into the wilderness.

On the approach to Brentford's renamed Gtech Community Stadium it was possible to spot a handful of Bees shirts still bearing Eriksen's name and the No.21 he wore last season.

Whether or not those wearing them joined in with the barracking of the Dane from the off is unknown, but it was certainly the majority of home fans who ignored Thomas Frank's pre-match plea to lay off the man who turned down staying in west London for the bright lights of Old Trafford.

But any pre-conceived notion that a rough reception for United's summer signing would help Brentford get on top, intimidating their illustrious visitors and helping to set a tone that would make this a