Simon Kjaer had high praise for Azzurri stars Marco Verratti, Giorgio Chiellini and Gianluigi Donnarumma, calling Italy ‘his second country’.
The Danish defender was inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame following the vital assistance he gave to international teammate Christian Eriksen during his cardiac arrest at last summer’s European Championships.
Speaking to the FIGC, Kjaer first commented on Italy’s success at Euro 2020 last summer and the power of teamwork.
“That triumph was emblematic of team work and ethics and the demonstration of what results can be achieved through them. It was really impressive to see Italy win.
“On a personal level, I was obviously disappointed with the extra time defeat against England in the semi-final, it would have been great to face Italy in the final at Wembley, as they have given me so much and are my second country.”
The Danish defender then discussed a number of top Italian players and how he views them.
“If I think of Italian players with an international profile, I can’t help but mention Donnarumma, a fantastic goalkeeper with whom I was happy to share part of my experience at Milan.
“Also Verratti, who for me is one of the best three in the world in his role. And then I’ve always been impressed by Chiellini, who is one of the best defensive players in the world.”
The 33-year-old Kjaer, who is contracted to Milan until 2024, has only made 14 appearances across all competitions this season, suffering a cruciate ligament rupture in a 3-0 win over Genoa back in December.
The Danish centre back has recently returned to training in Milanello and is hoping to return to action before the end of this season, giving an extra boost to Stefano Pioli’s side.
Kjaer esalta il bianconero: «Fa impressione, è tra i migliori in questo» https://t.co/J4Dajj9p1q
— informazione sport (@infoitsport) April 12, 2022