Park Ji-Sung is confident Manchester United can maintain their place at the top of the Premier League while he is on duty with Korea Republic at the AFC Asian Cup. The 29-year-old has been playing arguably the best football of his United career this season, but could see his momentum disrupted by national team commitments.

Sir Alex Ferguson has already been without Park since Christmas and may have to wait until February for his return if South Korea reach the final in Qatar. Park will definitely miss next Sunday's trip to Tottenham, but could also be unavailable for games against Birmingham, Blackpool and Aston Villa.

United have already played some matches without me so they will have no problem. I am here for the Asian Cup and focused on that.
Manchester United and Korea Republic midfielder Park Ji-Sung

United top the standings ahead of rivals Manchester City and Park is confident that is unlikely to change by the time he returns to Old Trafford. "Manchester United are in good shape and on the right track," he said. "I have joined the Asian Cup for the Korea national team and things are looking good for us here.

"United have already played some matches without me so they will have no problem. I am here for the Asian Cup and focused on that and, once I return to Manchester United, that is when I will focus on my club team."

The former PSV Eindhoven star's international future was put under the spotlight ahead of South Korea's opening game against Bahrain tomorrow. But Park was keeping his cards close to his chest, insisting he will not make any decisions until after the tournament.

"At the moment I cannot say anything," he added. "I will say after the Asian Cup."