Ki Sung-yueng could retire from international football, which would be good news for new club Newcastle United.
There has been some potentially good news for Newcastle United as new signing Ki Sung-yueng hints at international retirement.
Ki has just been representing South Korea at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but following his country’s exit from the tournament the midfielder is considering his future.
“I can’t confirm whether I will certainly retire as I cannot make the decision on my own. But I did organise my thoughts to some extent. For the last four years as a captain, I felt responsible for not leading this team well,” the 29-year-old was quoted by the Northern Echo.
“I saw many coaches come and go and felt considerable responsibility on my shoulders as a captain, so that really tired me out. But I haven’t made up my mind yet. I will announce it when the time comes.
“When I started to play in Europe, I cared about the national team whenever I made decisions. Until now, I’ve sacrificed for my national team, and I considered my national team important, so I had picked a club where I can play many games. Now the World Cup is over, and I don’t have to do it that way.”
This could come as good news to the Magpies as Ki is set to represent his nation at the upcoming Asia Cup, which takes place between January 5 and February 1.
It could mean that the South Korean would miss a sizeable chunk of the upcoming 2018/19 season for his new club.
Ki recently joined Newcastle as a free agent following his exit from Swansea City after they were relegated from the Premier League.
The midfield ace became manager Rafa Benitez’s second signing of the summer following the acquisition of Martin Dubravka from Sparta Prague on a permanent basis following his successful loan spell.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
