Hwang Seon-hong (55), coach of the Asian Games U-24 (under 24) national team, talked about how to use Lee Kang-in (22, Mallorca). Although he declined to comment specifically, he professed that he would “play well and play in the position he likes.”
On the 15th, head coach Hwang Seon-hong faced reporters at the Paju NFC (National Football Team Training Center) and said, “It is good to see the bright appearance (of the players) after convening after March. The K-League is fierce, and I am grateful to the club for cooperating (with the selection),” he said. “I will do well to share tactics with the players in this convocation.”
The Asian Games national team led by coach Hwang Seon-hong convened on the 15th. We called 24 K-League players who are likely to accompany the Asian Games. Coach Hwang is determined to share tactics and goals through this opportunity. He said, “(Those who were convened) are the players who lead the K-League, and in the long run, they are the players who should lead Korean football. The competitiveness of Korean football will change depending on how much these players grow rather than immediately. Through the Asian Games and the Olympics, we will help these athletes grow further.”
In general, players who are active as key players in each team were called by coach Seon-Hong Hwang. In particular, the second line with Eom Won-sang (Ulsan Hyundai) Song Min-gyu (Jeonbuk Hyundai) and Koh Young-jun (Pohang Steelers) is evaluated as ‘the best ever’.
Coach Hwang Seon-hong said, “I have a lot of concerns about strikers (selection), and competition for side midfielders is very fierce. It is so severe that no one can guarantee that they will go to the Asian Games. Showing good performances in each team is the way to the Asian Games.”
Moreover, players from Europe such as Lee Kang-in (Mallorca) and Hong Hyun-seok (KAA Gent) are likely to join. Lee Kang-in, who has established himself in the adult national team to some extent, is very likely to play an active role as the ace of Hwang Seon-hong.
Director Hwang Seon-hong, who has already thought about how to use Lee Kang-in, said, “It is difficult to tell in general. He is envisioning how to write it. (Lee Kang-in) is active on the side, and it is getting better than before. However, the key is how competitive he will be in other positions. I will communicate well at the call-up in September so that I can play well and play in my favorite position.” 스포츠토토
One of the missions is to recruit overseas players such as Lee Kang-in and Oh Hyun-kyu (Celtic). This is because the selection is not mandatory because the Asian Games are not organized by the International Football Federation (FIFA). Director Hwang Seon-hong said, “I am also thinking about the wild card. However, overseas players have a problem in selecting their team. He is also thinking about plan B. If the target does not work, we will consider the next plan,” he said. I plan to go and meet (discuss) with the club officials. It’s not easy, but I’ll do my best.”
We are also thinking about a wild card that can participate in the tournament regardless of age. A total of 3 people can be selected for positions that are relatively less competitive. Director Hwang Seon-hong said, “I am thinking about a pool for about 10 people. He is trying to select players who will be a strength for the position he lacks.”
He talked about the ‘one team’ as the most important factor in selecting players. Coach Hwang Seon-hong said, “(The Asian Games) is a tournament and a short-term game, so the most important thing is how many teams can go on the field. We will select players who can advance with one goal.”