Online Reporter
CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN collapsed during Denmark’s friendly with Ukraine – and it is thought his internal defibrillator saved his life.
The former Tottenham and Manchester United man, 34, put his hand on his chest before falling to the floor as cameras panned away.
Medical staff immediately rushed to the Dane’s attention as players formed a huddle around him in horror scenes.
The match was quickly abandoned, but Eriksen was conscious and taken to Odense University Hospital by ambulance with wife Sabrina by his side. A statement from the Danish FA said: “Christian Eriksen is conscious and feeling well according to the circumstances. The match has been called off.” Shocked fans inside Nature Energy Park immediately broke into chants supporting Eriksen as medics raced to his aid.
The Wolfsburg midfielder received treatment for ten minutes before rising to his feet, when the entire stadium gave him a standing ovation.
National team doctor Morten Boesen saved Eriksen’s life five years ago after Denmark’s record appearance-maker collapsed, face first, into the pitch at the Parken Stadium.
The orthopaedic surgeon, who doubles up as FC Copenhagen’s team doctor, was honoured by Uefa for his brilliant expertise.
And Boesen confirmed the ex-Inter Milan man will undergo tests at hospital.
He said: “Christian is doing well and walked off the pitch by himself. As I see it, the internal defibrillator responded as it should.
“He was briefly unconscious, but regained consciousness very quickly, and we were quickly in contact with him.
“He will undergo further examinations at the hospital to determine what caused the incident.
“We are in ongoing contact with him and the doctors at the hospital. But Christian is doing well.
“He asked me to send his regards to all the players and tell them that he was okay.”
Denmark chief Brian Riemer, whose side missed out on bagging a World Cup spot, admitted to being frightened after seeing Eriksen go to ground.
He said: “The most important thing is that Christian is doing well. And he has.
“He has left the pitch and has sent a greeting to the players. But that’s why the experience is still scary.” Ex-Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who started the showdown alongside Eriksen in the middle of the park, hailed the lightning-quick response.
The Marseille man said: “The players and spectators showed great respect. It ended well compared to what actually happened.
“I turned around and could see that Christian was on his way to the floor. The response was swift, respectful and careful. Big praise to those who took care of it.”
Tottenham, where Eriksen spent seven years of his career, released a statement on social media.
It read: “Our thoughts are with Christian Eriksen and his family. Wishing you a full and speedy recovery, Christian. We’re all with you.”
Current employers Wolfsburg added: “We’re thinking of you, Christian. Today’s international match between Denmark and Ukraine had to be abandoned following Christian Eriksen’s collapse.
“According to the Danish Football Association, Christian is conscious and doing well given the circumstances.
“He has been taken to Odense University Hospital, where further examinations will follow.
“We are in close contact with the Danish Football Association and are following further developments. All the best and a speedy recovery, Christian.” Man Utd wrote: “Everybody at Manchester United is encouraged by Denmark’s update on Christian Eriksen following today’s abandoned friendly against Ukraine.
“The club is sending strength and love to Christian and the Eriksen family as we await further news.” Ashley Young, who was a team-mate at Old Trafford, posted on social media: “I hope you’re okay bro.
“Sending prayers and best wishes to you and your family.”
Denmark were leading 2-1 at the time with goals from Man Utd star Patrick Dorgu and defender Joakim Maehle. – Sun.
Mathew Masinge