Fletcher Salutes Park Following Retirement

Darren Fletcher has paid tribute to former Manchester United favourite Ji-sung Park, who played his last match in professional football at the weekend.

The South Korean icon received a hero's farewell during Friday's K League Classic All-Star Game and scored his last-ever goal before predictably winning the Man of the Match award following an entertaining 6-6 draw at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

Of course, Park enjoyed a hugely successful seven-year career at Old Trafford, where he made 205 appearances and lifted nine major honours while also winning the respect of every United fan through his tireless, committed displays in midfield.

During an exclusive interview with ManUtd.com, Fletcher was quick to salute his old team-mate and share memories of playing alongside the man who was affectionately known as ‘Three-lung Park’.

“I remember him as a big-game player,” Darren praised. “When the big games came around, against the likes of Arsenal and the big Champions League sides, he always stepped up to the plate. He was a great team-mate and a real humble lad in the dressing room. He just went about his job diligently.

“For such a big star in Asia – and he really is a superstar there – he never acted that way at all. He was always professional and a great player. I’d say he was an underrated player, too. People talk about his work-rate but technically he was very good as well.

“He could use his left and his right foot, he received the ball very well, he was strong and was the ultimate team player," Darren continued. "He would sacrifice himself for the greater good of the team. The more players you have on your side like Ji-sung Park the more chance you have of being successful.”

Asked for a standout match from Park’s time at Old Trafford, Fletch had just one in mind: “It has to be our games against AC Milan when he man-marked Andrea Pirlo. Not only did he stop Pirlo when Milan had the ball but he also caused them problems going forward.

“People think he just followed him all over but he didn’t. As soon as we had the ball he found himself space and created chances. He even scored himself. But not many people can keep Pirlo quiet - the discipline he showed over those two games was fantastic.

“He was a fantastic team-mate and someone I have huge respect for and enjoyed playing with. I’m sure he’ll be busy now that his career is over. I know he’s a superstar over in Korea so I’m sure it won’t be a quiet retirement. Congratulations on a fantastic career, Ji.”