Son to miss London Olympics

28 June 2012 07:53

South Korean teenager Son Heung-Min has withdrawn his name for London Olympic selection preferring to focus on club duties at Hamburg.

The 19-year-old Gangwon-born attacker, who has made nine appearances for the senior national team, was expected to be part of the South Korean side at the Games.

However, Son told Kicker he wanted to concentrate on his club career as he tries to build on his five goals in 30 appearances during the 2011/12 Bundesliga season.

"In Korea, an Olympic appearance has a special meaning, but I want to speed up for Hamburg," Son said.

"What matters is to pour all my time into team training."

South Korea's Olympic coach Hong Myung-Bo is expected to announce the squad for the Olympics on Friday.