Seoul - Korea Republic captain Park Ji-sung has planned to end his national team career after the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said in its news report issued here last night.
Quoting the Korean and Manchester United ace's father Park Sung-jong, the report said the continental showpiece in Qatar would be his last for the national team.
"Ji-sung, 29, said before the FIFA World Cup in South Africa that the Asian Cup would be his last national tournament," the senior Park said.
"Now, ahead of the Asian Cup, there is no reason for him to change his mind."
Park said his son wanted to give more chances to young players.
"Ji-sung said 'when I give way, players like Lee Chung-yong will appear. They don't have to think I should be there'.
Health issue was another compelling reason for him to retire after the finals in Qatar.
Park said travelling around the globe to play international matches for Korea has affected him and he also wants to focus on his club more.
Ji-sung will be back in Korea for training for the AFC Asian Cup after playing the league match against Sunderland on December 27.
His national teammate Yeam Ki-hoon, who plays for Suwon Bluewings, said, "I hope he changes his mind as he is a very important player for Korean national team."
Chunnam's 19-year-old player Ji Dong-won said, "He is still a very good player. I am also able to learn a lot from him. So, I wish he stays in the national team." (QNA)
Source: http://www.qnaol.net