Choi Jin-cheul

Choi Jin-cheul (born 26 March 1971) is a South Korean football manager and former player.

Club career

Choi played only for K League club Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors during his professional career. He played 312 games for Jeonbuk in the K League (including Korean League Cup). He was a well-built centre-back and was strong on aerial duels and tussles.

A forward during his school days, Choi played as a striker while Jeonbuk striker Kim Do-hoon was on loan to J.League club Vissel Kobe for two years in 1998 and 1999. He had 17 goals and 8 assists including a hat-trick during that time.

After winning an AFC Champions League title in 2006, Choi was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.

International career

Choi was an influential centre-back in South Korea national team. He made 65 appearances for the national team including matches in 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cup. He formed a strong defense with Hong Myung-bo and Kim Tae-young during the 2002 World Cup.