Hwang Sun Hong, the interim head coach of the national soccer team, selected Lee Kang In (Paris Saint-Germain), who has been the center of a controversy with fellow teammate Son Heung Min. Despite the cold stares and the possibility of his choice backfiring, Coach Hwang’s decision could also serve as an opportunity to bolster the team. It’s a crossroads. It is the moment where the efforts of Lee Kang In, Son Heung Min (Tottenham), and all the national team members are needed.
On the 11th, Coach Hwang included both Lee Kang In and Son Heung Min in the 23-man roster for the A-match doubleheader (21st and 26th) against Thailand at the Football Association in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
Lee Kang In had previously caused a major controversy by clashing with Son Heung Min on the eve of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup semi-final match against Jordan. He was heavily criticized by soccer fans and politicians.
Given the noise, there had been speculation that Coach Hwang Sun Hong could exclude Lee Kang In from the March convocation. However, Coach Hwang embraced Lee Kang In, opting for a head-on breakthrough.
As a result, Son Heung Min and Lee Kang In will be teaming up again after about two months.
The primary task to advance to the final round of the World Cup is to get a good result in the match against Thailand. However, changing the atmosphere and public opinion of the national team, which has been in a mess for the past two months, and properly maintaining it is as important as winning. Coach Hwang believes that Lee Kang In’s joining should be a stepping stone for a new start.
He emphasized, “The selection of Lee Kang In was entirely my decision. If we don’t call Lee Kang In this time and move on to the next, we can get past the immediate noise. But the problem won’t be solved just by calling him in next time instead of this time.”
He further explained why Lee Kang In was selected, saying, “There are also elements that can become stronger if we gather strength again. The best way to solve what happened on the field is on the field.”
The decision has been made. Now, all members need to make an effort. Lee Kang In, who has been given the opportunity, must sincerely apologize and reflect on his mistakes. Son Heung Min, who is not free from responsibility for the controversy, must also embrace his younger teammate sincerely. It’s something more than a problem that only the two players have to deal with.
Coach Hwang said, “Friction between players can happen in any team. I don’t think there is a problem between the two (Lee Kang In and Son Heung Min). It’s a problem for all members, including the team members, coaching staff, supporting staff, and more. Therefore, everyone needs to take responsibility.”
Coach Hwang’s explanation hints that internal problems had been festering and were revealed through the two players. Therefore, everyone should work together to solve the problem. Only then can it be properly healed. Coach Hwang, who has taken the helm of the ship in difficult times, is determined to lead by example.
Coach Hwang said, “The players will respond to this call-up with a heart to atone for the people. As a coach, I have the same mindset,” expressing his resolve firmly.
We must remember the old cliché that the ground hardens after the rain. Coach Hwang’s bold decision could be a golden opportunity for Korean football to harden again, which has been soaking wet and going through tough times.
tree@news1.kr