Denmark's Eriksen leaves hospital after 'successful operation'

Copenhagen (AFP) – Denmark midfielder Christian Eriksen has been discharged from hospital following a “successful operation” six days after suffering a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020, the Danish Football Union (DBU) announced Friday.

Doctors had said Thursday that Eriksen, 29, would have a heart defibrillator implanted to regulate his heart rhythm, casting doubt over whether he will be able to play again.

“The operation went well, and I am doing well under the circumstances,” Eriksen said in a statement.

“Thank you for the massive number of greetings — it has been incredible to see and feel.”

Eriksen was able to visit his team-mates at their training base in Helsingor, north of the Danish capital. He will now return home to spend time with his family.

The Inter Milan playmaker had to be revived on the pitch after collapsing in the 43rd minute of Denmark’s Group B opener against Finland last Saturday.

The match at Copenhagen’s Parken Stadium resumed nearly two hours later, after Eriksen was rushed to hospital, and Denmark lost 1-0.

The Danes were beaten 2-1 by Belgium on Thursday in a game that was interrupted after 10 minutes for a round of applause in support of Eriksen.

Denmark must beat Russia in their final game Monday in Copenhagen to stand a chance of reaching the last 16.