Lee Urges Son To Choose Happiness

South Korean wants compatriot, who faces uncertain future at Spurs, to end career well

- Deepanraj Ganesan

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund left-back Lee Young-pyo believes his South Korean compatriot Son Heung-min should follow his heart when deciding on his future, adding that the Spurs captain must be certain of regular playing time if he chooses to remain with the English Premier League club.

The 33-year-old Son, who led them to Europa League glory last season – his first piece of silverware in 10 years at the club – has less than 12 months left on his contract, with no indication that a new deal is imminent.

With Spurs unlikely to let their club's marquee player leave for free, the uncertainty has led to exit rumours, with clubs in the Saudi Pro League reported to be keen.

The 48-year-old Lee, who made over 90 appearances for Spurs from 2005 to 2008, told The Straits Times in an interview: "In my opinion, the most important thing is the player's happiness.

"When it is the last chapter of a football career, a footballer needs to make sure that he is happy. And the most happiness is what you get from playing. If he wants to enjoy and be happy, then the most important thing is to know where he can get that playing time.