Møller Nielsen honoured in Denmark

UEFA President Michel Platini has attended the assembly of the Danish Football Association (DBU) in Odense, where he inducted the late former Denmark coach Richard Møller Nielsen into Danish football’s Hall of Fame, and congratulated the association's new president Jesper Møller on his election.

Mr Platini presented Richard Møller Nielsen’s son, Tommy Møller Nielsen, with the award, together with former Denmark and Manchester United FC goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel. After a video of highlights from the EURO '92 winning coach's career, the UEFA President remarked: "It is good to see all these memories." Peter Schmeichel enjoyed a warm relationship with his former coach. "He is the most successful national team coach in Danish history," he said. "He was my mentor, teacher and coach, and I proud to say that he was my friend."

The 76-year-old passed away last month. He led Denmark to their greatest triumph, when they lifted the Henri Delauney Cup in Sweden in 1992 after replacing Yugoslavia in the finals at the last minute. He achieved domestic triumphs with Odense BK, winning two league titles and a Danish Cup. He also coached the Finnish national team from 1996 to 1999 and Israel from 2000 to 2002.

The assembly in Odense also saw DBU President Allan Hansen step down after twelve outstanding years at the helm. Michel Platini gave his best wishes to Jesper Møller, who was elected as president. He has been DBU vice-president since 2004, while also serving as chairman of Aalborg BK in the Danish Superliga.

Mr Møller spoke of his excellent relationship with Mr Hansen and expressed his commitment to building on the foundations already laid. "We have worked very closely together and enjoyed fantastic cooperation," the new president told his predecessor. "The international recognition that you received at the reception and dinner [on Friday] clearly indicates the amazing work you have done – and the international network you have created will benefit the DBU in the future." On Friday, Michel Platini paid a warm tribute to both Mr Hansen and the DBU general secretary Jim Stjerne Hansen, who is also stepping down from his association duties.

Mr Møller presented his predecessor with the DBU golden pin, which is the highest award of the Danish association. "I am very proud to receive this honour," Mr Hansen reflected. "I am looking forward to my continued work on the international football scene." Mr Hansen, a member of the UEFA Executive Committee since 2009 and chairman of the UEFA HatTrick Committee, will remain in his UEFA roles.