Choi Kang-hee named head coach of national soccer team

Choi Kang-hee of Jeonbuk Motors has been confirmed as the new Korean national team manager.

Following a meeting of its technical committee, the Korea Football Association announced on Wednesday that the 52-year-old would lead the national team for the Asian qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.

The announcement came just two weeks after the football governing body fired former manager Cho Kwang-rae, citing his inability to control the team. Cho first came under fire following Korea’s humiliating 3-0 loss to Japan in August, and his status was in serious question following the 2-1 loss to Lebanon last month.

Choi is now taking over the job, however, with some controversy as his appointment came in a hurried process.

The national soccer team plucked Choi Kang-hee from K-League side Jeonbuk Motors. (Yonhap News)

After sacking Cho, the football body has been in somewhat of a quandary in filling the void. With just two months to go before Korea’s next game against Kuwait, the KFA said until recently it was looking to hire a foreign manger.

After the KFA’s announcement, Dutch manager Guus Hiddink and Senol Gunes of Turkey have been touted as potential targets. Former England manager Sven Goran Eriksson has also been linked to the job.

But on Wednesday, the KFA’s technical committee director Hwangbo Kwan suddenly announced that the Jeonbuk manager is now the new head of national football team.

“We need someone to be able to maximize the team within a short period, and someone who can lead the team into the 2014 World Cup. We believe Choi is the right person,” said Hwangbo during a press conference.

But asked about the details of Choi’s contract, he failed to answer, suggesting that the KFA and Choi are still negotiating a deal.

“But I can confirm. He will lead the national team,” Hwangbo added.

Choi, who successfully guided Jeonbuk to win K-League title in 2009 and also in 2011, is expected to bring a vast wealth of experience to his new role, added Hwangbo.

The newly appointed manager Choi’s first major task will be Korea’s must win game against Kuwait scheduled in Feb. 29, 2012.

Korea is hoping to make it to eight consecutive World Cup finals. It currently sits at the top of Group B in the third round of Asian qualifiers, but is only ahead of Lebanon on goal difference. Kuwait is in third, just two points behind. By Oh Kyu-wook (596story@heraldm.com)