Christensen turns down Denmark call-up despite return to action

Despite his return to action, Christensen will not join Denmark’s national team during the international break. Coach Brian Riemer understands the defender’s choice, saying a gradual return is needed to protect his fitness.

Christensen’s return followed recovery from a muscle injury to the rectus muscle in his left thigh, which had kept him out for more than a month and a half. After several seasons disrupted by recurring injuries and reduced playing time, he chose not to rush his return to international duty. Riemer said it was not a decision the player wanted to make.

The coach said Christensen had decided for himself that he was not ready. “Given his current physical condition, he doesn’t feel ready to play international matches,” Riemer said in comments reported by the Danish press. He added that the defender had apologised for being unable to join the squad.

Riemer also emphasised Christensen’s attachment to the national team and how difficult the decision had been. “When I spoke to him on the phone last night, his voice sounded as if he was on the verge of tears; he is very frustrated and very upset about the situation,” the coach said. According to Riemer, the choice was Christensen’s, and he made it reluctantly.

Riemer believes the player still needs to build up his return in stages. “Even if he could sit on the bench and play five minutes, he still has a long way to go before he can play a full 90-minute match and compete at the highest level,” he said. The coach still hopes to call on Christensen again and added: “We are taking special care to make sure he is ready by next March.”

The defender signed a new two-year contract with FC Barcelona a few months ago. He has already missed seven matches this season because of injuries. Last season, he also missed 36 matches for club and country amid a series of injuries and physical problems, including a torn knee cruciate ligament.

His absence comes as Denmark travel to face Portugal on Saturday before hosting Norway on Tuesday in the final two rounds of Group 4 in League A of the UEFA Nations League. Denmark are second on 6 points, behind Portugal on 12 after Portugal won all its matches. That first place has already secured Portugal a place in the competition’s knockout phase, which will take place in March. Wales and Norway are third and fourth with 3 points each.