By Kang Seung-woo
Celtic midfielder Ki Sung-yueng is likely to be sidelined for two to three weeks after sustaining a thigh injury, his agency confirmed Thursday.
An extended absence would pose a major blow to the national team, facing possible elimination from World Cup qualifying.
“Ki is suffering from a right thigh injury and he will undergo a full medical check-up at his club,” said C2 Global, Ki’s management company.
“We will be able to find out how serious his injury following the check-up.”
According to the agency, the 23-year-old Korea international complained of pain in his right thigh after the semifinal of the Scottish Communities League Cup against Falkirk on Monday.
According to the agency, Ki collided with a teammate during a pre-match practice. He came on as a substitute in the second half.
Should Ki be out for longer than anticipated, the Taeguk Warriors are likely to have difficulty in reaching the World Cup finals for an eighth straight time.
With one match remaining, the Korean team has a slight lead over Lebanon on goal difference in its regional qualifying group.
In order to reach the final Asian qualifying stage, Choi Kang-hee’s side needs to either win or draw with Kuwait on Feb. 29 in Seoul.
Midfielder Koo Ja-cheol, who recently moved to Augsburg on a six-month loan, is suspended for the crucial tie after reaching the yellow card limit.
Facing the loss of two regulars in the center of the pitch, the national team only has a limited time to look for replacements.
Even if Ki recovers in time he will be lacking match fitness, meaning he may well not feature in the friendly match with Uzbekistan on Feb. 25 or the Kuwait match.
National team manager Choi said that Ki’s injury is manageable thanks to a deep player pool.
“I have already been informed of his injury, but I believe it is not a big issue for the squad,” Choi said.
“There are about 33 players on the radar for the national team and there are several players who could to step in for Ki.”