New york: It has been a little over four years since Jeong Sang-bin last played for the South Korean men's national football team. The 23-year-old believes he has grown up, both as an athlete and a person, over that time, and he can't wait to demonstrate his maturity on the field.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Jeong expressed his excitement during a media session at Icahn Stadium in New York, where the Taegeuk Warriors are preparing for a friendly match against the United States in Harrison, New Jersey. This will be followed by a game against Mexico in Nashville, Tennessee. Jeong, who plays as a forward for St. Louis City SC in Major League Soccer (MLS), made his senior international debut in June 2021. He scored a goal in South Korea's 5-0 win against Sri Lanka during the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, but only recently earned another opportunity with the national team.

Head coach Hong Myung-bo cited Jeong's strong performances in MLS and his familiarity with the U.S. playing environment as reasons for his call-up. Jeong noted his growth since his first national team experience and expressed his commitment to delivering strong performances. He also highlighted his versatility, being able to play as a winger or a wingback, and his ability to create opportunities with his speed and off-ball movements.

Jeong has played at the stadiums scheduled for the team's current trip and emphasized his readiness, mentioning the short travel distance and lack of jetlag as advantages. Another team member, Austria Wien fullback Lee Tae-seok, commented on the positive mix of youthful energy and veteran leadership within the team, expressing confidence that their off-field chemistry will lead to strong performances on the field.