Kjaer ‘must move on’ after Eriksen incident

Simon Kjaer admits he must ‘move on’ after the Christian Eriksen incident and believes this is the best moment in his career.

Kjaer featured in the 30-man shortlist for the Ballon d’Or and ended up 18th. Leo Messi won the award for the seventh time in his career, while Italy and Chelsea star Jorginho was ranked third.

“That’s the best moment of my career, I was on the list of 30 tonight and I helped Milan qualify for the Champions League last season,” Kjaer said.

People complaining about Kjaer’s Ballon d’Or ranking have a short memory

“We are Scudetto contenders this season, I’ve always tried to improve during my career, I’ve never had doubts about my character. It’s not a surprise for me to be here.”

Kjaer was the first one to give life-saving aid to his friend and teammate Christian Eriksen when he collapsed on the pitch due to a heart attack at the Euros over the summer.

The Denmark international received praise from Didier Drogba during the Ballon d’Or ceremony.

“This man is a hero, this is bigger than football and us,” said Drogba.

“Kjaer saved the life of his partner, Christian Eriksen. Not all superheroes wear capes.”

This is more than football.

Thanks @simonkjaer1989 for being you! ❤️#ballondor pic.twitter.com/Z84TCbiafE

— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@francefootball) November 29, 2021

“It’s something that remains in my heart, but, slowly, I need to move on, although I respect all the questions about it. It’s something that I will never forget,” Kjaer said.

“It’s something very personal, luckily it ended well, otherwise I wouldn’t be here now.

“The most important thing is that he feels well. The focus has always been on the pitch. Now I will try to move on.”

Did Messi deserve to win the Ballon d’Or?

“Yes, I think so,” the Milan defender said.

“He is a champion and we are lucky to have seen a player like him. Everyone speaks about Maradona and Pelé, but my generation only saw them on Youtube.

“Seven Ballon d’Or awards are impressive, I don’t think there will ever be a player like him in the future.”

Who is the favourite to win the Scudetto this season?

“I think it depends on who you support…but I think Milan are the best team,” he said smiling.

“It depends on us, it’s all in our hands.”