I didnt want to avoid an opportunity. But I do not regret not having been chosen the manager.
After manager Pim Verbeeks resignation, coach Hong Myeong-bo, who had been a candidate for the post of national Olympic soccer team manager, revealed his innermost thoughts yesterday.
Hong spoke with newly appointed manager Park Seong-hwa at the Korea Football Association office in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on August 6 about the management plans of the Olympic team. Hong said, I decided to join manager Parks team. I thought of the Olympic teams continuity. Going to the 2008 Beijing Olympic finals is the goal were faced with.
Once considered a strong candidate for the managing position, he responded to those who cited his lack of experience, Ive played soccer for over 20 years. Experience is important, but isnt the most important factor. After this, I realized that more people were interested in soccer than I thought, and I was able to examine myself. Whats important is, Do I have what it takes to be at the top position? Hong expressed his determination to give it his best.
On Verbeek he said, I feel he stepped down too early. Because soccer fans are very much invested, being the coach of the national team is like holding a grail of poison.
He said of Park, With little time for training, I think he was the right man for the job. Ive heard the players take his lead. Because they dont speak English, I think theyll converse more.
Hong vowed, I have become a national team coach for the first time with a sense of duty towards the development of Korean soccer. That duty is still unchanged.