Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur ready to take on HK champions Kitchee
After classes in tai chi and dim sum-making, Spurs stars Son Heung-min and Eric Dier share their thoughts on Hong Kong fans and their upcoming match against Kitchee
Son Heung-min and his teammates were all smiles at yesterday's open training sessionIf you've noticed more Tottenham Hotspur football shirts on the streets this week, it’s because the English Premier League football team are in town for a showdown with local champions Kitchee this evening.
Spurs players have already had a quick class in Hong Kong 101, with players splitting up to learn the calming art of tai chi, how to make traditional dim sum, and taking part in football freestyle performances with Lyson Sze. (Look out for our cover story on Sze this weekend in Sunday Young Post!)
After the fun and games, it was back to business for the Premier League runner-ups, who arrived in Hong Kong earlier this week after a 1-7 demolition of Hull City in the last game of the season.
Harry Kane, Dele Alli and co. stepped onto the Hong Kong Stadium pitch for an open training session yesterday evening, with local Spurs fans screaming their favourite players’ names from the stands.
“It feels fantastic. We’re really happy to be here and it’s great to see a new culture,” said defender Eric Dier. "I really appreciate that we’ve got so many fans here and hopefully we can give them a good game tomorrow.”
While Dier, Kane and Alli all received warm reception from the crowd, the biggest cheer was for South Korean star Son Heung-min. The 24-year-old attacker is widely regarded as Asia’s top footballer at the moment.
“I’m trying to enjoy every training session, working hard to be at the top. I try to keep a smile on my face – I think it’s very important to enjoy playing football,” said Son.
Like Dier, this is Son’s first time in Hong Kong. “It’s a very good experience. There are so many fans welcoming us – and welcoming me – I’m excited to play against the champions Kitchee. Let’s see what happens,” he said.
The match kicks off at 8pm tonight. Who are you cheering for?