South Korea’s head coach, Hong Myung-bo, has addressed growing worries about captain Son Heung-min’s performance, affirming that the experienced forward continues to be “the heartbeat” of the squad.
Son, the most capped player in South Korean history and the nation’s second-highest goalscorer, had a rough outing in Tuesday’s 1-0 loss to Austria, failing to convert several opportunities and facing scrutiny ahead of this year’s World Cup.
The 33-year-old began last week’s 4-0 defeat against the Ivory Coast on the bench, with Hong clarifying that his absence from the starting XI was due to illness.
“Son Heung-min is the heartbeat of our team, and I have never doubted that,” Hong told the media.
“I managed his playing time as he was recovering from a cold when he initially joined the camp. As far as I’m concerned, Son Heung-min has been outstanding as captain and one of the seasoned players.”
Son, who is still searching for his first goal with Los Angeles FC in the MLS this season, responded this week to the notion that his performance levels have dropped.
“When the time comes for me to step away from the national team, I’ll do so on my own terms. If I can no longer compete at a high standard, then I shouldn’t be part of the national team,” he stated.
“Right now, I need to return to my club and improve my performance. It’s frustrating that people mention a decline each time I hit a dry spell.”
“I understand that expectations are high because I’ve netted so many goals over the years. I am always giving my best, and physically, I feel great.”
South Korea will feature in Group A during the World Cup, set to take place from June 11 to July 19, alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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