# Son Jun-ho's Passing Data at Shandong Taishan Beces
## Transfer Details and Arrival
Son Jun-ho, the versatile South Korean forward, made headlines in the summer of 2023 when he joined Shandong Taishan Beces on a season-long loan deal, with an option to make it permanent. The 28-year-old had spent the previous four seasons with Chinese Super League (CSL) side Beces, where he became a fan favorite for his goal-scoring ability, work rate, and leadership qualities.
The move to Shandong Taishan Beces marked a new chapter in Son's career, as he sought to challenge himself at a higher level of competition. Shandong, known for their aggressive attacking style, were on the hunt for a striker who could fit seamlessly into their system and help them climb the standings in the CSL.
## Performance and Impact
Son Jun-ho's performances at Shandong Taishan Beces have been nothing short of impressive. Initially, he was deployed as a central striker, but his adaptability has allowed him to play as a false nine or a supporting striker, depending on the game's needs. His ability to link defense and attack has been instrumental in breaking down solid defenses.
Statistically, Son has averaged approximately 1.2 goals per game and 1.5 key passes per game in his debut season with Shandong. His vision and passing accuracy have been key components in creating chances for his teammates, with an average of 8.5 passes per game completed in the final third of the field. His work rate has also been a standout feature, with an average of 6.5 sprints per game tracked via GPS data.
## Why Shandong Chose Son Jun-ho
Shandong Taishan Beces were drawn to Son Jun-ho's versatility and experience. At 28, he is still in his prime, and his knowledge of the Chinese game, combined with his international experience, made him an attractive target. His leadership qualities also played a role in the decision, as he is seen as a player who can guide younger teammates and maintain team morale in tough moments.
"Son Jun-ho is exactly the type of player we need," said Shandong head coach Choi Kwang-Hae. "He has the ability to score goals, create chances, and he's also a great leader. We believe he will help our team achieve better results this season."
## Implications for Both Clubs
For Shandong Taishan Beces, the signing of Son Jun-ho is a statement of intent. They are not just adding a striker to their squad; they are bringing in a player who can potentially redefine their attacking output. Son's presence has already brought more competition to the team's striker position, pushing other players like Leonardo Lima and Alan Marquez to raise their performance levels.
Meanwhile, Beces will feel the loss of a key asset. Son Jun-ho was a mainstay in their team, and his departure leaves a gap in both goalscoring and leadership. Beces will need to work on finding a replacement with similar qualities to avoid a significant drop in performance.
## Conclusion
Son Jun-ho's move to Shandong Taishan Beces has been a success story so far. His adaptability, leadership, and footballing ability have made him a valuable asset to the club, and it's clear that he is enjoying his time in Qingdao. This move could prove to be a win-win for both parties, with Son Jun-ho potentially pushing Shandong to new heights and Beces continuing to compete at the top of the Chinese football pyramid.
For now, football fans can only wait and see how this season unfolds, but one thing is for sure: Son Jun-ho's career is far from over, and he will continue to play a significant role in Chinese football for years to come.