Suwon Samsung Bluewings midfielder Yeom Ki-hun will miss the 2018 FIFA World Cup due to injury.
Suwon reported that the 35-year-old had a right fourth rib fracture as tackled by Ulsan Hyundai’s Richard Windbichler in the AFC Champions League match.
In his interview with Korea’s football journalist Seo Ho-jeong, Yeom shared his feelings.
“I was very confident. I really wanted to play in the World Cup. I thought I would do well because I was so desperate.
“This was the last time. I wanted to retire from the national team in a good way. I wanted to show fans how desperate I was regardless of whether I could play or not because 2010 left me regrets and frustration.”
Yeom played in the 2010 World Cup; he was criticised for missing the opportunity to score an equaliser against Argentina that in the end defeated Korea 4:1.
“If I were not injured and still not chosen by Shin Tae-yong, then I would accept it. But this is very frustrating. I have no choice but facing the reality, though.”
However, Yeom still wanted to support South Korea. “The team has improved a lot since Shin took over. I am confident this team will be a good team if given enough time.
“I will root for the team though I cannot be together. I hope I will be the last one to get injured in the national team. I hope there is no injury, even minor ones.”
