Local media pointed out that excessive criticism is being directed at Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).
The British media 'Football London' reported on the 20th (Korean time), "Tottenham's captain Son Heung-min has faced a lot of criticism this season. While opinions may differ, Son has maintained a decent record this season despite his team's poor performance."
The media explained, "Only three players have created more decisive opportunities than Son Heung-min in the Premier League. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) has created 21, while Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) and Cole Palmer (Chelsea) have each created 19. Following them, Son has created 16 big chances."
It added, "Son Heung-min has recorded 9 assists in the league. The only players with more assists are Saka, Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Mikkel Damsgaard (Brentford), and Salah."
"It is true that Son Heung-min has left some regrets in terms of scoring this season," continued 'Football London.' "He is likely aware of this himself. He currently has 7 goals in the Premier League. However, it is clear that he is fulfilling a necessary role for the team as a creative playmaker. There are also aspects where he has been unlucky regarding goals. The fact that only three players have hit the post more often than Son in the Premier League speaks volumes. This could suggest that the criticism directed at Son is excessive."
Amid Tottenham's struggles this season, criticism has been focused on 'captain' Son Heung-min, and 'Football London' made a statement expressing that the excessive criticism directed at Son is unwarranted based on statistics.
In the 2024-2025 season, Tottenham remains at the bottom of the Premier League. On the 16th, they lost 0-2 in an away match against Fulham in the 29th round held at Craven Cottage in London, dropping to 14th place. Fans' anger is mounting.
In the match against Fulham, Son Heung-min was substituted in at the start of the second half. He recorded 1 shot, 3 chances created, 4 successful crosses (4/8), and 2 successful duels (2/4) over the course of 45 minutes. Despite his struggles, he was unable to play the role of a finisher. After the defeat, Son covered his face with his jersey in frustration.
As the final whistle blew, Tottenham fans strongly criticized Son Heung-min. 'Tottenham News' reported, "Son Heung-min's popularity is declining. The 15th defeat of the season has pushed fans' anger to the extreme." According to the media, some fans shouted, "Terminate his contract" and "He should have shown it on the field."
There were even shocking claims that it would not be surprising if Son Heung-min transferred to a second-tier team.
Former Brentford manager Martin Allen, in an interview with 'Tottenham Hotspur News' on the 20th, said, "Son Heung-min is a fantastic player. But to be honest, he's losing the speed he used to have. His performance has declined significantly compared to his peak. It is not surprising that Tottenham is considering how to transfer him," adding, "Where will Son Heung-min go? A team that is promoted from the Championship would likely want to sign him."
However, 'Football London,' which has covered Son Heung-min closely for a long time and enjoys high credibility, pointed out that the criticism directed at Son has crossed a line.
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