John Murtough explains why Manchester United have signed Christian Eriksen

Manchester United football director John Murtough said Christian Eriksen will bring "valuable experience and leadership skills" to the squad after the Dane's arrival on a free transfer was confirmed.

United, who registered their second win of pre-season with a comfortable 4-1 triumph over Melbourne Victory on Friday, have announced the Denmark international as their second signing of the summer, following Tyrell Malacia's arrival at Old Trafford a little over a week ago. Eriksen was a free agent after turning down a new contract at Brentford and reached a verbal agreement with United earlier this month.

The former Tottenham star joined Brentford on a short-term contract in January after being forced to leave Inter Milan due to being fitted with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) device, following the cardiac arrest he suffered 13 months ago at Euro 2020. Brentford were determined to keep hold of the playmaker, but United's offer proved to be too good for the 30-year-old to turn down.

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On bringing Eriksen to Old Trafford, Murtough told club media: "Christian has been one of the best attacking midfielders in Europe throughout his career. It is no surprise that he had so many options this summer, so we are really happy that he was convinced that this is the right club for him.

“In addition to his outstanding technique, Christian will add valuable experience and leadership skills to the squad, and we are looking forward to seeing the benefits of these qualities on the pitch this coming season and beyond.”

Eriksen excelled during his short-term stint at Brentford last term, grabbing four assists and scoring one goal in just 11 Premier League