Bae Junho five games away from national military service exemption

Bae Junho could have a list of personal reasons about the importance of the Asian Games, where he will start his campaign with South Korea under-23s today against Qatar in Japan (11.30am UK time).

The 23-year-old wants to prove he can impact matches after a challenging time at Stoke, for instance; get in on the action after watching the World Cup from the sidelines, partly through injury; and secure an exemption from national military service by winning a gold medal.

But the Stoke City playmaker told the Seoul media: “I feel pressure because this is a personal opportunity for me. I think the other players feel the same way – but I will prioritise team performance over personal matters and running an extra mile to win and become champions will be the most important thing for me.

“Although I was unable to play in the matches at the World Cup, having travelled as a member of the national team, I believe that what I learned at the time can be helpful to the Asian Games national team as well. Regardless of the current atmosphere within the national team or the football world, we will do our best in the situation given to us and focus solely on this tournament."

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The “current atmosphere” that Junho referred to is the fallout from elimination in the World Cup group stage. That resulted in a national outcry and the exits of head coach Hong Myung-bo and Korean FA chairman Chung Mong-kyu.

There is still expectation on the younger group. South Korea have won this tournament three times in a row and are in a group with Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Two will progress to a knock-out quarter-final stage. The final will be on October 3 in Tokyo.

Junho has been handed the number 10 squad number, having mostly played in that central role off the front line for Stoke since the start of last season.

He had made three starts and three substitute appearances at club level so far this term before flying out to the Far East late last week to join up with his international teammates.

"I had a long flight and didn't have much time to adjust, but those are all just excuses,” said Junho, who missed Stoke's trip to Watford and is unavailable for Saturday's Championship clash with Sheffield United.

“I am preparing to perform at my best within the time given. When the match comes, I will forget everything else and show my best skills.

"All the players, including myself, are aware of how important and meaningful this tournament is. We have prepared with such desperation, and we are well-prepared. If I play in the number 10 position, I will try to play aggressively so that the team can score quickly.”

Junho is one of five UK based players in the squad, along with Brentford defender Kim Ji-Soo, Celtic midfielder Yang Hyun-jun, Swansea midfielder Eom Ji-sung and Newcastle United winger Park Seung-soo. They are aiming to get off to a flying start.

He said: “I have analysed Qatar a lot and the coach has also guided us well. Although our defence is strong, I think our attack is our strength compared to other teams. If we score early it can lead to more goals so I want to score early and control the game.”

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