Simon Kjaer has said that he is “not a hero” for his actions after Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark’s opening game of Euro 2020 against Finland.
In the 43rd minute of the game, Eriksen collapsed on the pitch and had to undergo emergency medical treatment.
The Danish FA later confirmed that he was stable in hospital, and he was discharged six days after being fitted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).
Denmark team doctor Morten Boesen confirmed that Eriksen had suffered a cardiac arrest.
Eriksen’s international team-mate Simon Kjaer was widely praised for his actions in the immediate aftermath of Eriksen’s collapse.
The Denmark captain was first on the scene and secured Eriksen’s neck, cleared his airways and began to perform CPR before medical assistance arrived.
He was credited with playing a potentially life-saving role in the response to Eriksen’s collapse.
Kjaer, though, doesn’t think is a hero – and says he did what he “had to do, without thinking about it, as anyone else would have done”.
Kjaer speaks about actions after Eriksen collapse
Speaking to Italian outlet Corriere della Sera (translation required), the AC Milan defender said: “I had the readiness to stay lucid, like all my companions.
“It was a team effort, we obviously would have done the same if he had been an opponent. That’s it.
“The only thing that matters now is that Christian is now well. That’s all that’s important.
“I did it without thinking. Instinct guided me and I did what I had to, automatically. It was the first time it happened to me, I hope it’s also the last.”
Kjaer also stated that all players – and others – should learn resuscitation techniques, and hopes that the Eriksen case raises awareness.
“I hope that image has raised awareness on the subject,” he said.
“The doctors were very good, they intervened immediately, but certainly knowing what to do at certain times is essential. It can save a life.”
Featured Image Credit: Getty