Criticism of director Conte’s ‘stupid tactics’ shields him, “I will work hard”
Son Heung-min (30) has recently stepped forward with coach Antonio Conte, who has been criticized for his operational skills.
▲ Tottenham manager Antonio Conte (centre) gives instructions to Son Heung-min and Klusevsky with a fierce expression during the EPL 2nd round away match against Chelsea on the 15th. [로이터 연합뉴스]
Son Heung-min took over as Conte’s coach at a press conference with British media including Football London on the 6th (Korea time) after the third round of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) group stage (0-0 draw) against Frankfurt (Germany). He showed strong trust while refuting voices of criticism towards him.
Tottenham suffered a sluggish defeat at recent Premier League ‘North London rivals’ Arsenal 1-3 and a goalless draw in Frankfurt. In particular, there were voices of criticism that Conte had not used the abilities of Tottenham’s players well with a tactic aimed only at counter-attacking.
After the game against Frankfurt, former Tottenham defender Jason Kundi appealed for the frightening performance of Tottenham’s attack, saying, “Tottenham are playing with the handbrake on.” Regarding this, Son Heung-min said, “Criticism of the team from outside is something we cannot control.” He said, “We must suffer together as a team. Critics have to think positively because they have high expectations.”
▲ “Use both feet well”
After being replaced, Son Heung-min enters the bench with a smile while talking to coach Antonio Conte.
Reuters London
He showed confidence towards Conte. “It’s important to be with Conte,” said Son. “Last season, I didn’t believe we would be in the UCL now. Conte wants more and I will follow his path. We have to trust Conte. There is no choice,” he said.
Son Heung-min, who won the Golden Boot (top scorer trophy) for the first time as an Asian player with 23 goals last season, has a rather low scoring ability this season. He has only scored three goals in the league, including a hat-trick against Leicester City. Including UCL, he has 3 goals and 1 assist.
In response to these criticisms, Son Heung-min promised, “I will work harder on my own.” “Harry Kane and I had a great opportunity,” he said. “I think we should have scored two or three goals against Frankfurt,” he said. No goals have been scored in an away game.”
Son Heung-min continued, “The Champions League doesn’t always bring a chance to score with difficulty,” and “We’re human too. need to improve a little more. It’s very frustrating, but I’ll go in a better direction.” Tottenham, who are in third place in the league with 5 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss (17 points), will play against Brighton in the EPL on the 9th.
Byung-gyu Choi, staff reporter
