Son Heung-min’s outstanding performance in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League positions him as a candidate for the title of Asia’s best-ever player. His consistent scoring record and significant contributions to Tottenham Hotspur highlight his elite status. When compared to other renowned Asian players, such as Keisuke Honda and Park Ji-sung, Son stands out for his versatility and goal involvement.
Son Heung-min has made a significant impact in football with impressive statistics: 10 goals and three assists in 11 Premier League matches this season, and three goals and three assists across six European fixtures. His performance positions him among the best in the world, potentially making him a starter for any top club globally. If awarded the title of Premier League’s best, it would solidify claims for him being Asia’s greatest footballer ever.
Since becoming a full-time starter in 2012 at Hamburg, Son has consistently scored double figures for goals each season, except his first at Tottenham Hotspur. Achieving this in eight of the last nine seasons reflects his reliability across the Bundesliga and Premier League, considering he is not exclusively a striker. His World Cup contributions and role in Tottenham’s 2019 Champions League final run underscore his elite status as a player.
When comparing Son to other Asian football legends, questions arise about his unparalleled consistency and importance at a major club in a top league. Notably, Keisuke Honda had a remarkable career but lacked sustained performance in Serie A. Tim Cahill, known for clutch performances and World Cup success, though not as technically gifted as Son, made significant impacts for Australia and Club Everton.
Park Ji-sung leads with major titles, including four Premier League championships and a Champions League win, but Son’s goal involvement outshines him. Cha Bum-kun pioneered the path for Asian players in Europe, boasting impressive Bundesliga statistics but missed World Cup success. Hidetoshi Nakata, an influential figure in Japanese football, holds accolades but does not match Son’s influence during games.
Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka showcase immense talent and goal-scoring abilities but faced injury struggles and international expectation challenges. Majed Abdullah and Ali Daei excelled on an international level but were limited in top-tier European competition. Shinji Kagawa enjoyed success with Borussia Dortmund but failed to fulfill his potential at Manchester United.
Sami Al-Jaber experienced success with his club but similarly did not test himself in top leagues. Honorable mentions include multiple players across Asia who contributed greatly to their national teams but did not reach the heights of Son’s career. As Son’s career progresses, he could redefine discussions regarding Asia’s best with major trophies and individual honors.
Original Source: www.sbs.com.au
