Denmark captain Simon Kjaer and the medical team that saved Christian Eriksen’s life have been rewarded by Uefa following their effects in bringing back to life of Erikson. Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during Denmark’s Euro 2020 defeat by Finland in Copenhagen on 12 June.
Kjaer has been recognised for showing “exceptional leadership qualities” in his response to the situation. Thanking the medical team, the former Ajax and Tottenham Hotspur player said: “You did a fantastic job and saved my life.” “Also, a big thanks to my friend and captain Simon and my teammates in the Danish team for your support, both on 12 June and afterwards.
Erikson also said: “Thanks to all the fans who have sent messages to my family and me. It means a lot and has given us strength and support. Thank you.” The Inter Milan player collapsed shortly before half-time against Finland and needed to be treated with a defibrillator as he was resuscitated by medics.
He was fitted with an ICD – implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and is now recovering. Kjaer was commended for his “admirable response” to the situation. The 32-year-old AC Milan defender put Eriksen in the recovery position, started the initial CPR procedure before leading the Danish players in forming a ring around Eriksen as he received medical attention and comforted Eriksen’s partner.
Kjaer Speaks on Receiving Uefa Award
Kjaer speaking on this, said: “It’s something that will stay with us for the rest of our lives.” “The team reacted as a unit…as a team, we made the maximum effort to stick together and try to get through that situation and be as helpful as possible.”
The player also said: “I try to lead the team on and off the pitch, in every aspect of life, as footballers, when we’re together. I think it’s one of the biggest privileges I have in my career.” “I’ve known Christian for many years. He has a great family. He has a lot of friends, a lot of teammates that want the best for him. As long as he’s happy and his family is good, I’m happy.”
Recipients of the 2021 Uefa President’s Award:
On-site medical team
Mogens Kreutzfeldt (chief medical officer)
Frederik Flensted (stadium medical manager)
Anders Boesen (pitchside emergency doctor)
Peder Ersgaard (paramedic)
Uefa Venue medical officers
Jens Kleinefeld
Valentin Velikov
Danish national medical team
Morten Skjoldager (physio accompanying the team doctor)
Morten Boesen (team doctor)
Simon Kjaer (Denmark national team captain)
