When Danish footballer Christian Eriksen collapsed following a sudden cardiac arrest on the field of play during the Euro 2020 match on 12th June, millions of football fans were on tenterhooks.

Players and staff at Guernsey FC, were also following developments with bated breath and firmly crossed fingers. The fact Christian survived is unquestionably due to the expert help he received within moments of his cardiac arrest.

This fact did not go unnoticed by the Green Lions, and as a result the club approach St John to arrange for the players to get basic CPR and AED training. This week Heather Langlois, Training and Development Manager at St John Training Services, went along to their training session to demonstrate these life-saving techniques.

Heather said: “CPR is a simple but life-saving skill. We are delighted that Guernsey Football Club are equipping their players and coaches with the skills required in a cardiac emergency. Anyone can potentially save a life with the right techniques, and it’s great that the club are setting an example in training their players in this way.”

Guernsey FC director Nic legg said: “The club is grateful to St John Training Services for offering their time. We are fortunate to have a defibrillator on site at Footes Lane, our home ground. This was Guernsey’s first public access defibrillator, unveiled by former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Fabrice Muamba back in 2013 after his own on-pitch collapse the previous year. We also have a portable defibrillator for away games.

“This training is an important extension of our preparedness. We all saw the importance of a fast response in this kind of situation, and if the worse did happen during a match, the players are the closest, so it’s great to feel they will know what to do in an emergency.”

If you want to learn CPR and other first aid skills you can contact St John Training Services on 247979 or email info@firstaidtraining.gg