JOHOR BARU: Kim Pan Gon held an awkward press conference here today in plotting the downfall of a Malaysian team.
The South Korean used to be a fan favourite here when he was the chief coach of Malaysia's national team.
But all that had changed after he abruptly resigned in July and went back to Seoul.
Now Pan Gon has come back - as head coach of Ulsan HD against Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) in an Asian Champions League Elite (ACLE) match at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium tomorrow.
It will be an interesting and intriguing match. The former Harimau Malaya coach knows a lot about Malaysian football and JDT too. In him, Ulsan really have an "insider".
But Ulsan, despite having won the K-League title recently, are struggling in the ACLE, having suffered three straight losses in the Asian-level tournament.
"We are thrilled to face JDT, one of the top teams in Southeast Asia," said Pan Gon in a pre-match press conference in Johor Baru today.
"Although we find ourselves in a tough spot after failing to earn any points in the ACLE, that will not be an excuse for us to be easily beaten," he added.
However, Pan Gon acknowledged JDT's impressive form in their last three matches, placing the Southern Tigers among the top eight teams, while Ulsan currently sit at the bottom of the Eastern Zone group.
"We must be prepared to confront JDT on their home turf, as they thrive in front of their supporters. Any team visiting Sultan Ibrahim Stadium will encounter significant challenges," said Pan Gon.
Though South Korean clubs have struggled previously against JDT, losing three of four encounters, Pan Gon opted not to dwell on past records.
Meanwhile Ulsan striker Kim Min Jun aims to deliver a standout performance against the Malaysian champions.
He believes that Ulsan can get their first ACLE win in Johor.
"JDT's playing style is centred around aggressive play and maintaining ball control, particularly in midfield. We need to be sharp and ready to counter their strategies," said Min Jun.