Lee Myung-joo has denied reports he must leave Al Ain to return to South Korea to complete his military service.
Speculation surfaced this week that the midfielder, 25, had been recalled to his homeland, however Lee confirmed that, as a professional footballer, he is allowed special dispensation to be conscripted any time up until he turns 28.
National service is mandatory for all South Korean males between the ages of 18 and 35.
Lee signed a three-year contract with Al Ain last summer and enjoyed an impressive debut campaign, helping the Garden City club to the Arabian Gulf League title and to the semi-finals of the Asian Champions League.
In a statement posted on Al Ain’s official website, Lee stressed his commitment to carrying out the military service, yet said his immediate focus is on another successful campaign with the UAE champions.
“I am very happy to play for Al Ain, who are one of the biggest clubs in Asia,” Lee said. “I am also proud of winning the league championship in my first season with the team, and my ambitions in the new season are to challenge for the Champions League title and therefore enter the Fifa Club World Cup.”
Lee is the only foreign player retained by Al Ain from last season, with Asamoah Gyan and Miroslav Stoch having already departed. Jires Kembo Ekoko has been told he can leave and is weighing up several offers. In their place, Al Ain have signed Ryan Babel, Fellipe Bastos and Emmanuel Emenike.
“Certainly, the three players possess high technical potential and have a strong desire to show their best to help the club achieve its ambitions and to make the fans happy,” Lee said. “They’ve settled quickly with their new teammates. I wish everyone success with the team in the new season.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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