Finnish honour for Michel Platini

The Executive Committee of the Football Association of Finland (SPL-FBF) has awarded UEFA President Michel Platini with the prestigious Erik von Frenckell medal for his far-reaching work for the good of the game. Mr Platini received the award at the association's season-closing Captain's Ball gala in Helsinki on Thursday.

SPL-FBF president Pertti Alaja spoke extensively of the UEFA President's achievements at the awards ceremony. "Michel Platini's achievements within football are undisputable," he said. "After his successful playing career, during which he won the European Championship among many other achievements, Mr Platini has renewed the game. In steering European football, Mr Platini has spoken out for football, and has always emphasised respect for the game."

The Erik von Frenckell medal – named in honour of the former SPL-FBF president and FIFA vice-president – may be given to a domestic or foreign person, association or company for the extensive work done for Finnish football. The medal can also be awarded to any esteemed member of the football family who has been serving the game in an exceptional way.

Pertti Alaja highlighted Michel Platini's valuable work in several fields within football. "During his presidency, Michel Platini has underlined the protection of minors, as well as football's special status within the European Union," he said. "He has spoken for, and acted for financial fair play, as well as for increasing the number of home-grown players in domestic leagues. Michel Platini has also renovated the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, which has given a better chance for smaller clubs to qualify for the group stages of Europe's showcase club competitions.

"As UEFA President, Mr Platini has undertaken extensive work for all 54 UEFA members at grassroots and top football levels. The Week of Football concept and modification of the EURO finals have strengthened the status of national-team football throughout the continent."