Man U’s Park Ji-sung Wears a Captain’s Armband

“New Engine” Park Ji-sung (24), the first Korean to play in the English Premier League, wore the captain’s armband for his team, Manchester United.

Park replaced Ryan Giggs 37 minutes into the second half of the game in the 2005~2006 UEFA Champions League Group D Round Three match against LOSC Lille (France) which was held on October 19 at Old Trafford, Manchester United’s home ground.

Giggs passed on the world prestigious Manchester United’s captain’s armband to Park. As if to show off his stored energy, Park gave a vigorous performance, passing two defenders at the half-line and attempting powerful drives to centerfield. He constantly made goal opportunities during the short time he was in the game, grasping free-kick chances from the right corner of the penalty area 40 minutes into the second half and from the center of the midfield right before the end of the game.

Manchester United played a hard game with only 10 players after Paul Scholes received a red card for a rough tackle 17 minutes into the second half. However, the team regained its vigor and stopped the opponent’s final attacks when Park Ji-sung joined in the waning minutes. The team had to settle for a 0-0 draw. Manchester United missed a good chance for a goal when Giggs’ left-foot free-kick hit the right goalpost.

Though Park played for only about 10 minutes, Sky Sports gave him a 7-point average, the highest among his teammates. After the match, Giggs was diagnosed with a fractured cheekbone and will not be able to play for another month or so. Consequently, Park may be having more chances to play.

Won-Hong Lee bluesky@donga.com