Choi Tae-Wook’s Desire to Play

“I want to play, but what can I do now? I’ll just make sure I take part in the World Cup.”

`Hiddink-division`’s striker Choi Tae-Wook (21. Anyang LG) is participating in the European field training of the Korean national soccer team as a `recovery training program`. After the injury of his left Achilles’ tendon in last November, he also hurt his right ankle during CONCACAF Gold Cup in the beginning of the year. Coach Guus Hiddink, therefore, gave Choi a special command to `reshape the body`.

Although Hiddink is continuing with the `Power Program` that maximizes physical strength, injured Choi Tae-Wook and Lee Min-Sung (Pusan Icons) are `exceptions`. Choi, instead, worked on his physical conditions with physical therapist Choi Joo-Young, jogging around the field. Also at the lodgings, he is being treated according to diagnoses of the team-doctor, Kim Hyun-Chul. Choi joined the team training with the fellow players for the first time on the 20th.

“I am being careful, and more careful. If another injury comes, I have to say goodbye to the World Cup.”

Actually, Hiddink’s affection for Choi is rather special. The fact that he made Choi, who is having trouble following the physical training program, join the European field training proved his affection. Choi’s affiliated team said he will not have to play team matches, including the Adidas Cup, and let him focus on recovering, but Hiddink took him along. Choi also accepted Hiddink’s decision, saying, “Wouldn’t I want to play for the team when it’s in trouble, even if it takes overworking.”

Fortunately, the `best medical team`, including the team-doctor and physical therapists, is accompanying the team, dismissing all possible problems of treatments.

For now, Choi’s `time of sortie` is scheduled for the match with Turkey on the 27th. Former side-attacker and offensive midfielder Choi Tae-Wook’s participation is good news in terms of `strengthening offense`. He is confident with any position, but side-attacker is his personal preference.

“Whether it’s right or left, side-offense is the most comfortable. But once any position is assigned to me, I’ll definitely show what I have got to the fullest,.” said confident Choi.

He is, perhaps, tired of sitting at the bench.

Sung-Won Joo swon@donga.com