(World Cup) A very infamous midfielder who wants to win over the critics

DOHA, 19 November (Yonhap) — South Korean midfielder Na Sang-ho epitomized manager Paulo Bento’s stubbornness in the player selection process.

Bento, who has been in charge since August 2018, has been reluctant to call up some of his players despite their apparent skill and outstanding performances with the club. Bent, on the other hand, has dated several other players despite his lackluster performances at club level.

Na falls into the latter category. He has played all 24 of his international matches for Bento’s watch, most of which have come off the bench as a versatile link between forwards and defenders.

However, there has been a heated debate among fans about whether he deserves to be named in the 26-man squad for this year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Na said Saturday his goal here is to win over his critics, albeit slowly.

“As a football player it’s normal to be criticized,” Na said after a training session at the Al Egla training site in Doha. . “I believe that if I play well in this World Cup, the criticism will go away. My goal is to have a positive result, game after game.”

Na said he was aware of the challenges ahead for South Korea, who will face Uruguay, Ghana and Portugal in Group H. formula.

“Their players looked great, but we are well prepared and we can expect good results,” Na said. “It really comes down to execution. I think we are a tight-knit group. We trust each other and we have great teamwork.”