(Photo Credit: Imago)
(Photo Credit: Imago)

Robbie Keane reacts to Son Heung-min's message after LAFC debut display

Jonathan Burnett

Jonny is a University of Leeds journalism graduate who became part of the FootballInsider team in Spring 2024, and recently worked as Head of Media for Widnes Vikings Rugby League club. Writing as a freelance reporter and commentator for The Sporting News and StatsPerform, he has covered matches in competitions including the FIFA Men's and Women's World Cups, as well as the Champions League, Women's Euro 2022, Six Nations and the Rugby Union World Cup.

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Son Heung-min's next career chapter is already up and running after his emotional departure from Tottenham Hotspur.

Son said a heartfelt goodbye to his Tottenham team-mates and supporters after his move away from North London was confirmed; the South Korean moving on after 10 seasons, 173 goals and 101 assists.

The 33-year-old's move to MLS side LAFC saw Son turn down the riches of the Saudi Pro League, and it's also left Thomas Frank looking to fill the massive hole left behind by his number seven's departure.

Tottenham have a plethora of options to step up and potentially replace Son in Mathys Tel, Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert, Richarlison and Manor Solomon, but Frank may also want to look elsewhere.

Son Heung-min's Tottenham stats (Credit: Imago)
Son Heung-min's Tottenham stats (Credit: Imago)

Son celebrates 'proud moment' after immediate LAFC debut

Son's move across the Atlantic developed at frenetic pace after he announced his intention to leave Tottenham after their pre-season friendly against Newcastle on 3 August, and he'd signed within days.

The Tottenham legend has also wasted no time in taking to the field for an LAFC side featuring Hugo Lloris, as he came on in the 61st minute of their 2-2 draw with Chicago Fire on Sunday for his debut.

Son won the penalty which Denis Bouanga struck home in the 81st minute to secure a point for Steve Cherundolo's side, and posted on Instagram at full-time (10 August) with a message to LAFC fans.

Robbie Keane also developed legendary status at Spurs before heading to the MLS, and he sent two 'applause' emojis in response to Son's post, which said: "Proud moment to make my debut. More to come!!"

Tottenham to explore options in search for 'the next Son'

Football Insider Verdict

Former Spurs and England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has told Football Insider that Leeds United are well placed to re-sign Solomon this summer, depriving Frank of another option to potentially succeed Son.

Tel is the prime candidate to act as Son's replacement after his £30million move from Bayern Munich this summer, but he'll need to massively improve on a return of three goals in 20 appearances last season.

Frank failed in his attempts to bring Bryan Mbeumo with him from Brentford to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but it remains to be seen if Spurs will re-enter the market for a replacement of a similar calibre.

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