"Son Heung-min is the center of our team. I have never doubted that, not even once."
Hong Myung-bo, head coach of the South Korean national football team, expressed unwavering faith in captain Son Heung-min despite growing concerns over the forward's declining form.
Hong returned to South Korea through Incheon International Airport on Wednesday after completing two European A-match friendlies. "Son Heung-min is the center of our team. I have never doubted that, not even once," Hong told reporters.
Son failed to display his trademark explosiveness during the two European A-matches. He featured in both the March 28 match against Côte d'Ivoire and the April 1 match against Austria but could not produce a goal. His speed and shooting power appeared diminished compared to previous performances.
