Denmark captain, medics to receive UEFA President's Award for saving Christian Eriksen

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin confirmed Tuesday that Denmark team captain Simon Kjaer and the medical staff that saved the life of Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen at the European Championship will receive the UEFA President's Award. The award recognizes "outstanding achievements, professional excellence and exemplary personal qualities."

Eriksen collapsed during his nation's Euro 2020 opener against Finland on June 12, and Kjaer immediately jumped into action to save his fallen teammate before the playmaker was resuscitated via CPR and a defibrillator.

"This year, the President’s Award transcends football," Ceferin said in the prepared statement. "It serves as an important and eternal reminder of just how precious life is and puts everything in our lives into the clearest perspective. 

"I would also like to send my very best wishes to Christian Eriksen and his family as he continues his recovery." 

Eriksen, meanwhile, thanked the medical team. "You did a fantastic job and saved my life," he added. 

"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. Thanks to all the fans who have sent messages to me and my family. It means a lot and has given us strength and support. Thank you." 

Eriksen was fitted with a defibrillator in the hospital and returned to Italian Serie A club Inter Milan earlier this month to meet with Inter director Beppe Marotta and teammates. However, it's believed the 29-year-old will not be able to resume playing in Italy unless he has the device removed per the country's rules and regulations. 

Previous reports said Eriksen likely wouldn't announce anything concrete about his career before February 2022. He could look to compete in a league located in England or Holland where strict regulations about cardiac devices aren't enforced by governing bodies.