Park Out, Man-U Defeated 1-2

Park Ji-sung (26, Manchester United) did not play in the match against Arsenal in the 2006~2007 England Premier League, which was held at Emirates Stadium in London, England, on January 22. Manchester suffered a come-from-behind defeat, 1-2.

Park, who made his return at the West Ham United match on December 18 after 99 days off due to an injury, was unable to play seven consecutive games. Park’s usual left-midfield position was occupied by veteran Ryan Giggs. Cristiano Ronaldo ran in the right-midfield, and the center forwards were Wayne Rooney and Henrik Larsson.

Manchester United scored the first goal eight minutes into the second period when Rooney knocked in a header, but at 38 minutes into the second half, Robin van Persie scored the equalizer. Right at the end of stoppage time, Arsenal’s star player Thierry Henry stole the victory with a header that put them ahead. Still, Manchester United was able to defend their first place spot with 18 wins, three draws, and three losses (57 points). Arsenal is in fourth place with 45 points.

The significance of Park Ji-sung not participating in the big match against Arsenal is somewhat controversial. Some analyze that this is because the team does not yet have confidence in Park starting in a big match, while there are some opinions that it is merely to moderate his condition after having played in six consecutive matches.

bluesky@donga.com