* Translated by AI

Starnews

"Who criticizes Son for not scoring?" US legend delivers furious 'praise' to Son Heung-min... "Higher level than me, no doubt about his class"

Published:

Park Jaeho

*This content was translated by AI.

LAFC striker Son Heung-min. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
LAFC striker Son Heung-min. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Son Heung-min practicing shooting before a match. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Son Heung-min practicing shooting before a match. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

Landon Donovan (44), a legend of American soccer, directly refuted criticism directed at Son Heung-min (34, LAFC) and expressed his trust.

On the 19th (Korea time), Athlon Sports reported that Donovan dismissed doubts about Son Heung-min's recent performances via his podcast. The report emphasized Son Heung-min's overwhelming influence on the team.

Son Heung-min has appeared in six matches in Major League Soccer (MLS) this season but has yet to score his first goal. While he has recorded two goals and four assists in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the lack of league goals is unusual. This stands in contrast to his explosive scoring ability last season, when he netted 13 goals in 13 matches.

Donovan's perspective, however, was different. On his podcast "Unfiltered Soccer," he told co-host Tim Howard, "Son Heung-min is a player on a completely different level compared to any point in my career." He further emphasized, "Honestly, who cares if he hasn't scored? He is already having a tremendous impact on the game."

Landon Donovan. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Landon Donovan. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

In fact, although Son Heung-min has not scored, he has provided six assists in six matches, fulfilling the role of the team's de facto ace. Thanks to Son Heung-min's selfless play, LAFC recorded five wins and one draw before their recent loss to Portland Timbers, currently sitting third in the MLS Western Conference. This highlights Son Heung-min's dedication, prioritizing team victory over individual statistics.

Donovan also cited Son Heung-min's time at Tottenham. He pointed to Son's past role as a facilitator helping Harry Kane score and his experience as the team's central axis after Kane's departure, praising Son Heung-min's versatility.

He stated, "Son Heung-min will eventually be fine," urging fans not to feel unnecessary anxiety. He then expressed confidence, saying, "LAFC's good momentum will continue, and Son Heung-min will be at the center of it."

Denis Bouanga (left) and Son Heung-min celebrating. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Denis Bouanga (left) and Son Heung-min celebrating. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

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*This content was translated by AI.

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