Lee Jung-hyo's persona is back, albeit without the thumb. The return of Lee Hee-gyun, who is also an absolute supporter, will be a big boost for the coach.
Gwangju FC defeated Jeju United 2-1 in the 20th round of the Hana Bank K League 1 2024 at the Gwangju Football Stadium at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Gwangju escaped back-to-back defeats and climbed to seventh place. Jeju dropped to eighth.
The return of Lee Hee-gyun was a big boost for Gwangju. Along with Uhm Ji-sung and Jung Ho-yeon, Lee is a key part of Lee Jung-hyo's soccer core, able to play on the flanks, in the center, beat defenders, and deliver passes. Lee's versatility has been utilized well by Lee Jung-hyo, who has made him a key player for Gwangju. After suffering a medial ligament tear in early May, Lee was expected to be out for three months, but he returned very early.
When he came back, Lee showed crazy breakthroughs through the left and center. Even when there were two opponents, he was able to get past them and make sure to catch one before passing to a teammate who was able to penetrate into the empty space. It had been a long time since he played, but he looked in good shape and showed that he understands Lee Jung-hyo's style of soccer perfectly. Although he didn't have any offensive points, he definitely contributed to the victory and brought the Gwangju fans to their feet.
In an interview with Mixzone, Lee Hee-gyun said, "The Jeju players looked good because they were struggling. I didn't do anything. I went in as a joker, so I tried to change the atmosphere. I'm satisfied that the team won, but it's unfortunate that I didn't score a goal."
On his early return, he said, "I'm young (laughs). They said it would take about three months, but I just focused on recovery and came back quickly. I'm actually very strong mentally. I proved that the mind can control the body. I'm a professional, I'm paid 19사이트 to do this, so if it hurts a little bit, I think I have to endure it. I'm not worried about a quick return," he said.
Lee Hee-gyun, the persona of coach Lee Jung-hyo, said, "You have to play tiki-taka with the coach to coordinate the atmosphere, but we don't have anyone like that in the squad. I think that's why the atmosphere was shaken. The coach sometimes speaks strongly, but I like it. There are some people who say it's wrong, but I'm on the coach's side. I like those remarks," he said of Lee Jung-hyo, laughing.
Lee Hee-gyun's role has become more important as Uhm Ji-sung's departure to Swansea City has become a reality. "Uhm Ji-sung is a very good player. But even without him, Gwangju played well. Our team doesn't collapse without anyone. Last year, we went to Final A without Jeong Ho-yeon." Coach Lee Jung-hyo also said in the post-match press conference, "We're not a team that depends on one player." It was indeed a persona.
Lee Hee-gyun also said, "Even if I play five minutes, I will do my best. I played about 30 minutes today, but it's up to the coach to decide how much more I can play in future games. I think I have to play the next game, and the rest of the games, with a lot of heart," he said, strengthening his resolve.
