|
As South Korea's most experienced, most capped player,
Hong Myung-bo is expected to anchor his country's defence
from his sweeper position (a defender who, like a midfielder,
is responsible for ball movement), and provide inspiration
and leadership on the pitch.
Hong Myung-bo is, without a doubt, the most beloved
soccer player in South Korea today. Myung-bo has earned
over 120 caps for his country and has played in three
previous World Cup tournaments, making him an invaluable
member of South Korea's national team.
Most pundits feel South Korea will become the first
host nation in the history of the World Cup to be eliminated
in the opening round. If they are to avoid earning that
dubious distinction, it will be up to Myung-bo to lead
the way.
"Hong's biggest asset is his experience and leadership,"
said Korean commentator Shin Moon-Sun.
He may be referred to as the "eldest brother"
of the South Korean team, but the byword with Myung-bo
is experience, not age.
"I know I am a bit older than others, but I'm
not old," he said." I'm still strong. My age
has never impeded my performance, psychologically or
physically."
The South Korean captain is known as a throwback to
the old-style of defenders: sure-footed, no-nonsense
tackling, strong physical play and a refined touch in
playing the ball out of danger from the back.
"I'm a defender," he said. "My goal
in this year's World Cup is not to give any goals."
Myung-bo first gained recognition for his country as
a 21-year-old at Italia '90. After a strong tournament,
he signed with Korean club Pohang Steelers and won league
MVP honours in 1992.
He put his name on the map at USA '94 when he scored
two goals. After a few more seasons in South Korea's
domestic league, he left to play in Japan's J-League
for Belmare Hirasseuka in 1997, leading the squad to
the Asian Club Championship. He eventually signed with
Kashiwa Reysol, where he earned J-League MVP honours
in 1999.
After a strong 2000 season with Kashiwa Reysol, he returned
to the Pohang Steelers in South Korea. Along the way,
he's been named a world all-star in 1997 and an Asian
all-star in 2000.
Now 33, the crafty defender will be looking to assert
himself at the World Cup one last time before retiring
from international soccer.
With files from Associated Press
|
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
