By Hong Kyubin Reporter = Kiwoom Heroes head coach Hong Won-ki couldn’t hide his mixed feelings about Lee Jung-hoo, who has been dealt a bad injury blow.

“My concerns have become a reality,” Hong told reporters at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on the 25th, adding, “I hope the surgery and rehabilitation go well and there is no hindrance to his future career.”

Lee was substituted after feeling pain in his left ankle while fielding in the eighth inning against the Busan Lotte Giants on 22 April.

After a medical examination, Lee was diagnosed with a damaged left ankle extensor ligament and will go under the knife on the 27th. His rehabilitation is expected to take about three months.

“I spoke to him a little while ago, and he had nothing but encouragement,” Hong said. “He simply told me that the injury was in the past, so let’s focus on rehabilitation.”

He then relayed Lee’s own account of his injury.

“Sajik Stadium was very soggy from all the rain, and the soggy grass was softer and more soggy than the green grass,” Hong said. “He explained to me that his foot was slightly stuck in there (the soggy grass) and that he pushed his foot during the start.”

When asked if he was disappointed with the grounds at Sajik Stadium, Hong said, “(All players) play under the same conditions.” “I think Lee Jung-hoo was a little unlucky,” he said.안전놀이터

Considering Lee’s contributions as team captain and centre fielder, this is a huge blow to Kiwoom.

“I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t (any) excitement in the squad,” Hong said, adding, “I believe they will continue to do their job in difficult conditions.”

“It would be a great help if the veteran players could lead the team a little more,” he said, referring to Lee Yong-kyu, Lee Ji-young and Lee Won-seok.

Meanwhile, Hong revealed that his starting rotation for the second half will be Ahn Woo-jin, Ariel Hurado, Choi Won-tae, Jang Jae-young, and Ian McKinney, with Chung Chan-heon as an alternate starter.