Son Heung-min criticism forces South Korean authorities to overview soccer pitches nationwide

Seoul, South Korea: South Korean authorities mentioned Thursday they may examine elite-level soccer pitches throughout the nation after nationwide skipper Son Heung-min blamed poor taking part in surfaces for hurting their World Cup hopes.

Dangerous pitches have been a operating theme in South Korean soccer with former Manchester United and England ahead Jesse Lingard, now at FC Seoul, additionally weighing into the controversy.Two dwelling World Cup qualifiers this month have been moved away from Seoul due to the state of the capital stadium’s turf, however Son additionally criticised the substitute venues.

“Once we’re at dwelling we’re alleged to get pleasure from one of the best taking part in circumstances doable however issues haven’t improved in any respect,” Son informed reporters after Tuesday’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Jordan in Suwon.

The Ministry of Tradition, Sports activities and Tourism mentioned it can conduct a radical inspection of pitches in any respect 27 Okay League stadiums beginning in April.

Officers can even take a look at how different nations, together with Japan, preserve their taking part in surfaces.

“The situation of a stadium’s pitch straight impacts not solely participant efficiency but in addition damage prevention and spectator satisfaction,” a ministry official mentioned.

“Via this inspection we intention to establish sensible options for bettering soccer pitch circumstances and strengthen cooperation with the league, golf equipment and stadium operators to determine a sustainable administration system.”

Following two dwelling attracts in a row prior to now week, Tottenham star Son mentioned: “I do know we will play higher than this however when circumstances on our dwelling soil get in the best way, then I’m wondering the place we must always get our dwelling benefit.”

South Korea are nonetheless on target for the 2026 World Cup in North America however the successive attracts meant they squandered the prospect to seal their place with room to spare.

Lingard, who moved to the Okay League final yr, final month tripped over a bit of turf whereas taking part in at dwelling for his membership.