South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo dismisses concerns over captain Son Heung-min's form, calling the veteran striker "the heart" of the team.
Son missed scoring opportunities in a 1-0 loss to Austria this week, with his performance under scrutiny before the World Cup. The 33-year-old began last week's 4-0 defeat to Ivory Coast on the bench due to illness.
"Son Heung-min is the heart of our team, and I have never once doubted that," Hong said.
Son, who has yet to score for MLS club Los Angeles FC this season, rejected claims of declining performance. "When the time comes for me to leave the national team, then I will do it on my own," he stated.
South Korea will compete in Group A during the World Cup from June 11 to July 19 against Mexico, South Africa, and Czech Republic.