South Korea’s head coach Hong Myung-bo has quashed growing worries regarding captain Son Heung-min’s recent performance, reaffirming that the seasoned forward remains “the heart” of the squad.
Son, who holds the record for the most caps for South Korea and is the second-highest goalscorer, squandered several opportunities during a 1-0 loss to Austria on Tuesday, with his form being closely scrutinised ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
The 33-year-old started on the bench during South Korea’s 4-0 victory against the Ivory Coast last week—a decision Hong attributed to Son’s illness.
“Son Heung-min is the heartbeat of our team, and I have never once questioned that,” Hong stated during a press conference.
“I have been careful with his playing time, especially as he was recovering from a cold when he first joined the camp. For my part, Son Heung-min has been an outstanding captain and a pivotal veteran,” he added.
Although the forward has yet to score for his club, Los Angeles FC, in this season’s MLS, Son has recently responded to claims about a decline in his form.
“I will step away from the national team on my own terms when the time is right. If I can’t perform at a high standard, then I should not be wearing the national jersey,” he remarked.
“I need to return to my club and aim to improve my performances. It’s disheartening that talk of a decline arises whenever I go through a rough patch.”
“I fully understand the expectations placed on me because of my past goal-scoring record. I’m always striving to give my absolute best and feel physically fit,” he concluded.
South Korea is set to compete in Group A at the World Cup from June 11 to July 19, joining co-hosts Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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