Christian Eriksen inspires Wyke as Wigan star eyes comeback after cardiac arrest

Wigan Athletic striker Charlie Wyke admits he has taken inspiration from Christian Eriksen's return to football as he plots a similar path back to the game.

Wyke suffered a cardiac arrest back in November after collapsing during a training session and spent a week in hospital undergoing necessary checks.

After a prolonged period of recovery and having been given the go-ahead by doctors, Wyke is now due to undergo a planned medical procedure that will keep him out for the rest of this campaign.

He is however targeting a return to action in pre-season - a similar timescale to that of Eriksen, who last weekend made his playing return.

Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest while playing for Denmark at last summer's European Championships and last Saturday saw him make his competitive debut for Brentford eight months after the harrowing incident.

Wyke posted a message on Wigan's Twitter page, updating fans on his comeback.

He said: "First and foremost, I would like to reiterate my appreciation for all the messages of support I have received over the past three months, they've really helped me and my family through what has been a challenging time.

"I am in a good place both mentally and physically and I'm really positive about what the future holds.

"I feel now is the right time to provide an update to Wigan Athletic supporters and those of other clubs who have wished me well, as I continue my recovery.

"As part of my testing, I have been back training with the lads in recent weeks while being monitored by the club's medical staff and an independent cardiologist, Dr Rob Cooper.

"I've felt really good and have rebuilt a lot of my physical strength, which has been reassuring. In the next couple of weeks, I will undergo a planned medical procedure which requires a period of rest before I can restart training towards full fitness again.

"This does effectively rule out a return to playing this season, though it keeps me on target to hit my goal of being fully fit to start pre-season with the squad.

"Like everyone, I was delighted and inspired to see Christian Eriksen return to play for Brentford in the Premier League this weekend, eight months on from his collapse at the Euros.

"The last thing for me to say is that I wish the lads, the staff and supporters the very best for the rest of the season and thank you for your continued support and well wishes."

Wigan are currently second in League One, with 13 more matches remaining.