In the first of a series of summer interviews with Gary O’Neil’s squad, Hee Chang Hwang reflects on a campaign of mixed emotions for the one-time firing front three of himself, Pedro Neto and Matheus Cunha.
The South Korean is on 13 goals for the season – more goals than he’d managed in his first two Molineux seasons combined and his biggest haul since 2019/20, when he spent half of the Red Bull Salzburg season alongside the formidable Erling Haaland.
This season things clicked for Hwang, who until October formed a deadly partnership with Cunha and Neto. Although injuries and international call ups mean the trio are yet to be reunited with one match remaining, Hwang now reflects on the threat Wolves are when everyone is available, which he expects to be the case again next season.
On a campaign of mixed emotions
“Compared to last year, we played well and got good results. After new year we had many players injured. For me, as a player and as a striker, I want to say sorry to my teammates and to everyone. I had so many responsibilities and I want to say sorry because I didn’t help the team, I couldn’t help the team, and it was very painful for me.
“That’s why in rehab I tried my best to come back stronger. After I came back, we didn’t win in seven games, but after, all together with Cunha, Nelson, Mario, with everyone we won at home to Luton and that’s the most important thing. We want to try our best, of course.”
On his best form around Christmas
“That was the best. After that time I had to go with my country to the Asian Cup. I watched every game in Qatar, but we played well and managed the games. When we play all together, we are very strong, and we can do better. I have confidence in our team.”
A big goal from Hee Chan!
— Wolves (@Wolves) October 28, 2023
🇰🇷🙌 pic.twitter.com/5T62VfHuho
On playing with Neto and Cunha
“We didn’t play much all together and we enjoyed it. We’re still waiting for Neto to come back. When we play all together, we are very strong. Cunha’s an amazing player and Neto as well. Also, in midfield and defence, we have so many good players as a team and I’m looking forward to next season and we can be a better team next season I think.”
On constantly pushing himself
“I train really hard on everything – speed, shooting, dribbling, skills, everything. I train everything in one day and it’s helped me a lot. That’s why I can say to young players, you have to train hard and then you can get results.”
