Park: Team Korea’s Youth Is a Factor

About 400 reporters from over 40 countries gathered in the convention room of Berlin Olympic Stadium last night where Nike’s Marketing Director Trevor Edwards introduced the new team uniforms for the main round of the 2006 World Cup.

“We used a high-tech material in these uniforms to keep the wearers comfortable. Let’s see them,” Edwards said. At that moment, eight soccer stars from eight countries entered the room from back wearing their national team uniforms. Park Ji-sung was wearing the new Korean uniform alongside other world soccer stars, including Luis Figo of Portugal, Adriano of Brazil, and Ruud van Nistelrooy of Holland.

Park: Advocaat Likes Offense-

“The national team has gotten younger compared to 2002. As a result, we are lacking in experience. But having more young players could also energize us,” said Park. He also spoke of the differences between Dick Advocaat, the current national team manager, and Guss Hiddink, the former manager. “Both are stubborn and have strong personalities. But while Hiddink cared more for stability and defense, Advocaat likes to focus more on offense,” said Park.

Park also commented on the playing conditions in Europe. “Korean grass is rather dry and stiff, while European grass is softer and wetter. It is important that we adapt to more slippery conditions.”

Nistelrooy Praises Park-

When asked what he thinks of his Manchester United teammate Park Ji-sung, Ruud van Nistelrooy said, “Park is the best. He plays in nearly every game, and he is second only to Wayne Rooney in the number of assists he makes. His game has matured impressively since I played with him in Holland. The Europe league experience of Park Ji-sung and Lee Young-pyo will contribute greatly to the Korean national team.”

Jae-Yun Jung jaeyuna@donga.com