Denmark national team captain Simon Kjaer and the medical team that saved the life of Christian Eriksen during UEFA Euro 2020 are set to receive the UEFA president’s award for this year.
Inter Milan midfielder Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest and collapsed on the pitch during Denmark’s European Championship group stage match against Finland back in June.
The medical team responded quickly to provide emergency treatment and the midfielder was resuscitated on the pitch.
Simon Kjaer also played a key role in the recovery of the midfielder and his immediate help and exceptional leadership qualities have convinced UEFA to consider him for the prestigious award.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has revealed that the medical staff and the Danish defender showed professional excellence and exemplary personal qualities and they are the true heroes of Euro 2020.
“When Christian Eriksen collapsed on the field in Copenhagen,” said Aleksander Čeferin. “I, along with millions of other football fans, was deeply shocked and concerned. To everyone’s great joy and relief, Christian’s life was eventually saved thanks to the remarkable professionalism of the medical team.”
“I have the utmost admiration for the doctors and medical staff for their outstanding reaction and calmness,” Mr Čeferin added. “Attributes which were crucial in Christian’s resuscitation.”
“I remain grateful for the exemplary leadership qualities and immense courage that Denmark’s captain, Simon Kjær, displayed in this most critical of situations,” said Aleksander Čeferin.
He also added that it is an honour for him to present them with the UEFA president’s award. Ceferin has also sent his best wishes to the family of Christian Eriksen and wished him luck on his road to recovery.
Eriksen is currently recovering from his ailment and he is expected to play for Inter Milan again.
