Newcastle midfielder Ki Sung-yueng has announced his retirement from international football.
There was talk that the South Korean captain would retire after last summer’s World Cup, however he chose to stick around on the international scene and play in this month’s Asian Cup.It hasn’t gone to plan, however.
Ki was sent home early after picking up a hamstring problem – with their national team medics making the injury worse after rushing him back to training.
He’s since been receiving treatment back on Tyneside and seems to be progressing well, but long haul trips to Asia and the injuries that can come with it are far from ideal for a player entering his 30’s. Just look how Diame’s form has improved since he decided to call it a day with Senegal.
This ends Ki’s 11-year career with the national team, but it could be good news as far as his form and availability for Newcastle is concerned.
Here’s what he’s had to say after retiring today:
“With the 2019 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup being my last event, I’m laying down the big honour and responsibility of the national team,”
“In my football career, the national team was more valuable than anything else. I want to thank fans who have loved and supported me for all this time.”
“The national team is having a difficult time after we failed to meet fans’ expectations at the Asian Cup, but I believe our players will overcome the difficulties under Bento’s guidance,”
“Now, I will be one of the football fans who support the national team and will wish the best for South Korean football.”
