Seo Jung-Won, ``Hope for Tomorrow``

Guus Hiddink, the Head Coach of the Korean National Soccer Team, did not select Seo Jung-Won (31, Suwon Samsung) nicknamed `Speedy` as a member of team for the Confederation Cup. Hiddink has thought that although Seo`s ability and enthusiasm can be highly regarded, but he is not a player who can take the various positions.

Seo Jung-Won is still a star player, even though he has stepped down from the national team.

`Asian Football,` the official magazine of Asian Football Confederation (AFC), published an interview with Seo Jung-Won in its May issue, titled ``Speedy`s New Lease of Life.`` This magazine introduced ``Seo Jung-Won as one who is back and full of running after recovering from a career-threatening knee injury.`` And it also has carried his hope ``to play at the 2002 World Cup. Now I’m fit, I’m very confident of playing at the World Cup, and of showing my best.``

Even though he was out of the Korean squad, the reason why he has become a focus of spotlight is that he has been regarded as the Asia`s best player in right wing position. Head Coach Hiddink has also acknowledged his superiority in the position.

In actuality, Seo has not shown a satisfactory performance in his team, Suwon Samsung, during this season. Notwithstanding, he was not a player whom the coaching staffs easily gave up. Whenever he penetrates into the right space outside the delta-formation comprised of Ko Jong-Su, Sandro, and Denis, he has inspired the admiration of fans, but he has also cut off the smooth flow of the game from time to time.

Seo might have considered seriously his role as a `hot potato`. Seo who has been blamed as a `paper tiger`, showed again his potential by scoring a goal at the Asian Club Championship semifinal game with Pirouzi (Iran). It was an important goal to make a tied game in the situation led by 0-1. Seo has disturbed the opponent`s defensive line with such active performances as he had shown in the prime time of his career.

Therefore, his remaining task is to mark a deep impression once again in the final with Iwata (Japan).

Every game will be crucial for him at the regular season that will be open next month. Although he was not selected as a member for the Confederation Cup, he cannot give up the hope to play at the 2002 World Cup that will be held in Korea.

Joo Sung-Won swon@donga.com