Thursday Sep 29 2005 14:11
Danish winger Jesper Gronkjaer has spoken of his emotional goalscoring return to the fold as his side beat Bulgaria 2-0 on Braga.
The 26-year-old wideman only returned to the Danish squad shortly before the victory after compassionate leave following the death of his mother.
However, after replacing the injured Dennis Rommedahl, he went on to play a starring role that culminated in a last-minute clincher against the East Europeans.
Afterwards, he admitted: "It was a relief to get out on to the pitch after everything that has happened.
"Of course I wanted to get back playing football, it is what I am best at and now it is not a problem for me keep things separated from each other.
"The support and reaction of the crowd was something I will never forget, it is really special playing for your country, but it was extra special to hear them chanting my name.
"I really appreciated that at the end. It was a really important goal for Denmark and for me personally.
"I am pleased to be back with the rest of the lads. Playing for the national team is the biggest thing you can do as a footballer, to play in big internationals in Euro 2004.
"I was just keen to get on and do my best, and to create some chances for the rest of the lads."
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