REFEREE Anthony Taylor is earning praise for his response to Christian Eriksen’s cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.

Taylor, who lives in Altrincham, was the man in the middle for the game between Denmark and Finland on Saturday.

He took decisive action a matter of moments after Eriksen collapsed, stopping the game and waving the medics onto the field to perform CPR.

Eriksen was conscious while leaving the field and is now in a stable condition in hospital.

Ed Duckworth, Referee Development Officer at the Cheshire FA, highlighted Taylor’s importance in this outcome.

He said: “Anthony demonstrated why he’s one of the best in the business on Saturday in Copenhagen.

“His alertness and awareness allowed medical staff to treat Christian Eriksen immediately.

“This quick intervention from Anthony, the players and the medical staff prevented loss of life, and everyone involved deserves recognition.

“Knowing Anthony and his humble nature, he won’t want any credit for his involvement.

“However, he’s a true role model to all referees and we’re proud to say he’s a Cheshire FA referee.”

Taylor is still involved in grassroots football in Altrincham, particularly in the Altrincham and District Referees’ Society.

And Saturday was not the first time he faced a medical emergency in his role as a referee.

He was also present in 2018 when referee assessor Eddie Wolstenholme collapsed before a Premier League game between Burnley and Newcastle United.

Both times, Taylor overcame a difficult situation and took to the field to see the game through to the finish.

After a delay, Saturday’s game ended in a 1-0 win for Finland, with the referee delivering an assured performance.