South Korea interim coach Robert Moreno has reportedly confirmed that veteran forward Son Heung-min will continue to lead the national team as captain, pushing back against widespread reports of deep divisions and growing friction among senior players within the squad. The announcement came during an extensive news conference ahead of next month's crucial international friendlies.
Moreno selected the 34-year-old MLS star alongside European-based players Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Hwang In-beom—individuals who were purportedly ready to walk away from international duty just last month. The Spanish coach claimed he spent significantly more time communicating with the players than conducting training sessions in an effort to mend the fractured dressing room following their dismal World Cup campaign.
Speculation surrounding the stability of the South Korean setup intensified after Bayern Munich defender Kim angrily threw his boots following a substitution in a drab draw against Venezuela. With the local football association desperately urging fans to halt excessive personal attacks against players, the entire national program remains under intense scrutiny following the disastrous tournament and subsequent resignation of former coach Hong Myung-bo.
Source: www.aljazeera.com