National Team Begins Overseas Tour

Fatigued from their 10-hour flight, the Korean National Soccer Team landed in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on January 16. Dubai will be a start of their overseas climate training tour that will include Saudi-Arabia, Hong Kong, the U.S., and Syria.

Each player attending the training camp is determined that he will make it through training and onto the roster.

World Cup veteran goalie and team captain Lee Woon-jae said, “It’s a tough schedule. But it’s a process we must go through to play well in the World Cup main rounds. To last through a tough training schedule such as this, you need to focus. I’ll make sure everyone gets through.”

Choi Jin-chul (Jeonbuk), another veteran of 2002, said, “Because Korean soccer players usually take their break after the season ends in December, January and February can be a downer when it comes to their physical conditions. The key is to pick up the pace as fast as we can. I think we will adapt fast since we all have high spirits.”

Lee Chun-su (Ulsan) also remarked, “The results of this training camp will decide how we do in Germany. I started training right after the K-League win. I’m confident I will make it and walk out smiling in the end.”

Lee Dong-gook (Pohang), who attended Spanish national team’s training camp before landing in Dubai a day prior to the rest of the team, also renewed his determination. “I have a painful memory of not making the roster in 2002. I’ll try my best to make up for it and claim the title of Korea’s best striker,” said Lee.

Coach Hong Myung-bo said, “This is a key part of the process in preparing for World Cup. The schedule is tough, so every one should do their best to keep their guard up.”

The players started their practice at Al Nasr Stadium after meeting up with team manager Dick Advocaat and coach Pim Verbeek, who flew in straight from their vacation.

Jong-Koo Yang yjongk@donga.com