England Captain Harry Kane Left “Numb With Shock” After Ex-Tottenham Team-mate Christian Eriksen Collapsed

England captain Harry Kane was reportedly left “numb with shock” after friend and ex-Tottenham team-mate Christian Eriksen collapsed on the pitch during Denmark’s Euro 2020 opener against Finland.

Eriksen was taken to the hospital after collapsing on the field in the first half of the game, and required extensive on-pitch treatment before being carried off on a stretcher. The match was temporarily suspended, and resumed more than 90 minutes later.

The Three Lions’ boss Gareth Southgate and skipper Kane were set to attend their pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash when the news broke of Eriksen’s collapse, and England chose to cancel their press conference.

A message displayed on the virtual link that had been due to host the pre-match press conference read: “In light of the awful events unfolding in Copenhagen, the FA have asked permission not to do their press conference scheduled at 19.30 CET. So the ENG press conference is cancelled. Thank you for your understanding.”

Our thoughts this evening are with Christian Eriksen and his family, and all connected with @DBUfodbold.

— England (@England) June 12, 2021

Kane, too, tweeted a message of support for his former teammate, saying: “Chris. I’m sending all my love to you and your family. Stay strong mate.”

Chris. I’m sending all my love to you and your family. Stay strong mate. ??

— Harry Kane (@HKane) June 12, 2021

England released comments from boss Southgate via Twitter later on Saturday.

“We are encouraged by the update from @DBUfodbold this evening,” he said. “On behalf of The @FA, our players and staff, we send our very best wishes to Christian and those close to him. We pay tribute to those who went to his aid with such care to give the support he received. Our thoughts remain with Christian and his family tonight.”