Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min says players must remember they are living their dreams by playing in the Premier League, even if the demanding schedule is taking its toll.

Domestic leagues and Uefa have been trying to cram in fixtures before the World Cup starts on November 20. Spurs are due to play 10 matches before the tournament begins in Qatar, starting with Wednesday’s Champions League game against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Son, 30, said travelling for matches and spending time away from home can be difficult but it was part of life as a professional player.

“When you think about it, when you were a kid what was your dream? Probably everyone is going to say playing in the Premier League,” Son told the London Evening Standard.

“So we’re living the dream and we can never forget these moments. I know there are tired moments and it’s mentally and physically really difficult.

“But we were born to do this, we love to do this and we should enjoy it. And obviously the more you enjoy it, the more happiness will be here. I know it’s tough moments but we should bring more happiness and it will be more enjoyable.”

Son will lead South Korea at the World Cup, where they are in Group H alongside Portugal, Ghana and Uruguay.

The former Australian international Tim Cahill, who is an ambassador of the World Cup and has been residing in Qatar for the past two years, called Son a ‘global icon’ and believes that the forward has what it takes to shine on the biggest stage of world football.

“He’s a global icon. He is very consistent regardless of not being able to score some goals here or there. I am a big admirer of Son. I’m looking forward to seeing him score goals in this World Cup (for South Korea) and enjoy an amazing journey for him and his country,” Cahill said.

“I think he’s probably the flagship at the moment for Asian football. He has power even though he doesn’t look that type of player, Finishing, exceptional. Technical, I am a big fan,” he added.