Denmark footballer Christian Eriksen has issued a statement from hospital in the wake of his collapse during a game against Finland, thanking supporters and giving a thumbs-up in a photo.
Key points:
- Eriksen suffered a heart attack during a game against Finland on the weekend
- In a statement, he said he was “fine — under the circumstances”
- The midfielder said he would be cheering on his teammates, who are set to play Belgium on Thursday
Eriksen fell face-forward onto the field in the 43rd minute of the Euro 2020 game on Sunday AEST.
He needed critical care, including CPR.
The incident shocked the crowd and players, with many in tears as medical staff treated him on the field for about 10 minutes.
He was eventually stretchered off to a loud ovation.
In a statement the Danish Football Federation posted to Twitter today, Eriksen thanked his supporters.
AP: Stuart Franklin
)“Big thanks for your sweet and amazing greetings and messages from all around the world,” he said.
“It means a lot to me and my family.”
The 29-year-old, who is one of Denmark’s biggest stars, went on to say he was “fine” despite suffering what team doctor Morten Boesen has since revealed was a heart attack.
“I’m fine — under the circumstances,” he said.
“I still have to go through some examinations at the hospital but I feel OK.”
The Euro 2020 match between Finland and Denmark resumed about 90 minutes after Eriksen’s collapse, with the Finns winning 1-0.
UEFA has since been forced to defend the decision to resume the game amid rumours the Danes were under pressure to return to the field.
Denmark is now preparing for their Euro 2020 game against Belgium on Thursday.
In his message, midfielder Eriksen threw his support behind his teammates.
“Now, I will cheer on the boys on the Denmark team in the next matches,” Eriksen wrote.
“Play for all of Denmark,” he added, finishing with a Danish flag emoji.
