Ji-sung Park scored a crucial goal against Arsenal that sent Manchester United to the top of the Premier League 15 years ago.
The South Korean international had already proven his pedigree in Europe for PSV Eindhoven before he signed for Manchester United, but that did not stop critics from questioning Sir Alex Ferguson’s motives behind the deal.
Ji-sung Park was the type of player who would put the team above himself. That was evident when he won four Premier League titles in five seasons.
He also made 205 appearances for United and scored 27 goals in seven seasons, making him a credible contender for one of the most underrated players in the club’s history.
The 44-year-old played key roles in big games and was trusted by Ferguson, regardless of the opponent, even man-marking Lionel Messi against Barcelona.
Ji-sung Park celebrates against Arsenal
Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images
Ji-sung Park restores Man Utd lead with Arsenal winner
Back on December 13, 2010, United required a win to leapfrog Arsenal and take the top spot in the Premier League table.
The Premier League title race was highly competitive that season, as Arsenal sat on top before the game, while United were the only unbeaten team in the league at the time. This meant the fixture was considered a “six-pointer” by many.
Both teams fielded strong sides, but Arsenal were without talisman Cesc Fabregas, and young Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny was handed his Premier League debut.
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The only goal of the game came from Park in the first half, after Nani’s cross took a deflection off Arsenal defender Gael Clichy. That was when Park adjusted his body to twist and guide a sharp, looping header over Szczesny.
While Park was on target, Wayne Rooney missed a chance to seal the win after 72 minutes when he ballooned his penalty kick over the bar.
Not only did United move to the top of the table after the win. They went on to win their 19th league title that season, sparking wild celebrations in Manchester.
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What did Sir Alex Ferguson say when he signed Ji-sung Park?
Park joined United from PSV Eindhoven in 2005.
He was signed from PSV Eindhoven for a fee of around £4 million as he became the first South Korean player to ever play for United.
Ferguson told the media after Park signed that he would bring energy to the team, and that is exactly what he did.
“I think Ji-sung will give us fantastic energy and speed on either side,” Ferguson said, as per ManUtd.com.
“The games he impressed me most with PSV were when he played on the left-hand side and came infield, so I will start with him there to begin with and see how he develops. But Guus Hiddink said to me that he is improving every day, so it’s a great option for me.
“He is quick, has fantastic energy and is good in the air. so the options are varied. He’s a very mobile player and very quick. He has fantastic energy and to get players with that quality with the speed of the game is a real asset.”
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