Damsgaard catching the flu was a big blow for the Riemer, who had intended a key role for the in-form Brentford player.
"He should have been in the starting line-up instead of Jesper Lindstrom. That was the way it was. He was the key player in the formation. We wanted to create a scenario where we outnumbered them in midfield, and I just have to say that Jesper went in and did it to perfection", sais Brian Riemer to the Danish media.
The solution was that Jesper Lindstrom started on the left wing. This earned him his first international match since autumn 2023.
"The young man has had a hard time. I have followed him very closely, because I think he is a fantastic footballer, and I just have to say that what I saw from him was a man who was ready to take on the task that was otherwise intended for our most in-form player, Damsgaard."
"When he came down with the flu, I just had to have another cup of coffee, I can tell you. But what a way that Lindstrom stepped in", says Riemer.
After going through a torrid time in Napoli. Lindstrom has finally found his form in Everton which has convinced Riemer that he is ready to play for the national team again.
The Everton winger will perhaps get another chance to shine when Denmark face Portugal in the second leg on Sunday 20.45 CET.