Lee Kang-in has apologised for his part in an altercation that saw South Korea captain Son Heung-min sustain a finger injury the night before the team’s Asian Cup semi-final loss to Jordan.
Tottenham forward Son was seen sporting a bandage on his right hand during the 2-0 defeat with details now emerging as to how the injury came about.
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Son was unhappy at Lee and other junior players in the squad leaving the evening meal early and partaking in a boisterous game of table tennis.
When confronted by Son, Lee is reported to have instigated a confrontation that resulted in several team members pulling them apart.
The Korean Football Federation (KFA) admitted an incident had taken place with a KFA official telling Yonhap: “It happened when some young players went up to play table tennis, and Son Heung-min and other older players took issue with it.
“The players exchanged a few words and Son hurt his finger in the process.”
Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee wrote on Instagram today: “It was reported that I had an altercation with Son ahead of the Asian Cup semi-final.
“I have caused great disappointment to all those football fans who support the national team. I am so sorry. I should have listened to the older players and I apologise for not showing a good attitude.
“I apologise to the many people who are disappointed in me. I am well aware of how invested fans are in me as a player. From now on, I will try to support the senior players and become a better player and person.”
The incident will do little to placate Korean fans angry at their team’s failure to reach at least the final in Qatar.
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann is already under pressure with the KFA conducting an investigation into the team’s performance.
