Manchester United playmaker Christian Eriksen has been nominated for a coveted sports award following his incredible return to the Premier League following a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020 which left him fighting not only for his career, but also his life.
Eriksen, 31, signed for United last summer after taking his first steps back at the top level with Brentford after he was released by Italian giants Inter Milan. Although the Denmark international is currently sidelined with an injury, he has continued his remarkable comeback at Old Trafford and beyond this season.
Before sustaining a serious ankle injury in January, Eriksen had played 31 matches for United in all competitions while striking up an impressive midfield partnership with Casemiro, his fellow summer signing. Eriksen has now been included on the star-studded 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards shortlist.
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Established in 2000, the ceremony celebrates sporting highs from across the calendar year with several prizes handed out to those who have achieved in several fields. Laureus is a global organisation that showcases elite sport and those achievements to help transform the lives of children and young people.
Explaining why Eriksen was nominated, Laureus member - and footballing icon - Luis Figo said: "Because of the situation he lived in the past. I remember it well because I was with UEFA at another game.
"We were very alarmed and sad in that moment, we couldn't really react on what happened. But at the same time, it was a beautiful ending because he was passing through a very crucial moment in his life, but he could come back and play this beautiful sport and the sport that he loves.
"For all of us, this is a happy ending story. You cannot control these moments, but the most important thing is he could come back; he's playing and he's happy and everyone can celebrate this moment."
Eriksen made his name with Ajax and Tottenham before representing Inter, Brentford and United. Between his spells with Inter and the Bees, he suffered a cardiac arrest on field during Euro 2020 and, remarkably, recovered to resume his career at the top level.
Other nominees in his category for 'comeback of the year' are Annemiek van Vleuten (cycling), Klay Thompson (basketball), Tiger Woods (golf), Francesco Bagnaia (motor cycling) and Jakob Ingebrigtsen (athletics). The winner will be announced at a springtime ceremony.
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