Son ends Spurs drought: ‘Let’s say I’m a legend’

Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-Min authorised the tag of Spurs legend, if just for sooner or later, after lifting the membership’s first trophy in 17 years following a victory in Wednesday’s Europa League ultimate.

Spurs beat Manchester United 1-0 in Bilbao, Spain, due to Brennan Johnson‘s first-half function. It was once the north London membership’s first name because it gained the English League Cup in 2008 and primary European triumph because it gained its 2d UEFA Cup — the similar of the Europa League now — in 1984.

The trophy was once additionally the primary that Son, who joined Tottenham 10 years in the past, has gained in his membership occupation. His most effective earlier silverware got here in profitable the Asian Games with South Korea in 2018.

Having mentioned at the beginning of this season that he sought after to move down as a Spurs legend however did not but really feel entitled to that honour, Son was once requested following the victory if he now considers himself worthy.

“Let’s say I’m a legend. Why not? Only today!” Son instructed TNT Sports.

“Seventeen years nobody has done it, so with such amazing players yeah today’s the day. Probably today I will say I’m a legend of this club.

“I think wonderful. This is what I’ve at all times dreamed for and lately is the day it took place. Dream got here in point of fact, in point of fact true. I’m so so glad. I’m the happiest guy on this planet.”

Son just recently returned from a foot injury and came off the bench in Wednesday’s final in the 67th minute. After the final whistle, he celebrated wildly with his teammates and later — draped with the South Korea flag — he saluted the fans in the stands.

The title guarantees Spurs a spot in next season’s Champions League and helps salvage a dismal season that sees the club languishing in 17th place in the Premier League ahead of the final round of fixtures.

“When you have a look at the entire season, there was once at all times some eventualities the place you might be having a difficult time, however we as gamers at all times caught in combination,” the 32-year-old Son said.

“The younger gamers at all times stepped up. I at all times attempted to provide them excellent recommendation, talk undoubtedly. I’m very fortunate I’ve such a terrific crew of gamers with me.”

Only a few weeks ago, Son was congratulating Harry Kane, his former Tottenham teammate. Kane finally won the first trophy of his career after leaving Spurs and joining Bayern Munich.

Son and Kane had teamed up for one of the best attacking partnerships in the Premier League, setting each other up for more goals than any other attacking duo in the competition. Kane had to move to Bayern to finally earn his first trophy. But Son was able to do it while still with Spurs.

Son and Kane were together when Tottenham lost the 2019 Champions League final to Liverpool in another all-English decider. Son is the only starter from that match who is still at Tottenham.

“I felt the power,” Son said. “I sought after it so badly. The ultimate seven days I used to be dreaming about this sport each and every unmarried day. It after all took place and I will be able to sleep simple now and I will be able to experience it.

“Today’s the day we can celebrate so let’s just make it one we will never forget and maybe I will miss the flight tomorrow!”

Information from The Associated Press was once used on this document.