Ki ready to claim Swans starting spot
KI Sung-yueng will be in contention for a starting role against Bournemouth, with Paul Clement insisting the midfielder’s selection on the bench at Burnley was down to fatigue after his international duties.
The head coach also said the South Korean had not been adversely affected by the alleged racist gesture he was on the receiving end of during his country’s friendly against Colombia.
During South Korea’s 2-1 win, Boca Juniors midfielder Edwin Cardona approached Ki following an incident in which tempers frayed and was seen to make a gesture towards his eyes.
Cardona has been widely condemned for his actions, with Colom- bia coach Jose Pekerman and the player subsequently expressing their regret.
Clement added his criticism after seeing the incident, but made clear his decision to only have Ki on the bench in the 2-0 defeat at Turf Moor was down to his involvement in both friendlies during the international break and the extensive travelling he had done.
“It’s unbelievable that still goes on in the era we live in, especially when it is so public,” said Clement.
“Ki’s alright, he’s focused on his football.
“He played nearly all the minutes in both games and had a really good win against Colombia in a game they weren’t expected to, and then drew with Serbia in a competitive game against a very strong side.
“He arrived back on Wednesday, he was fit, but obviously tired after two matches and the long-haul flights.”
“I thought the Colombians played a physical, rough game today, but it can happen in football,” Ki had said in the wake of the game.
“But racist behaviour is absolutely unacceptable.
“Colombia have world-class players, and I was extremely disappointed to see such action,” added the 97-times capped midfielder.