As a result of improved professional standards, Chinese football players have begun to become the targets for overseas clubs. Nearly a dozen Chinese footballers have played in overseas clubs, mainly in Europe. As our reporter Yang Fuqing reports, their overseas experience is a valuable asset to Chinese teams.
While Chinese players have begun to go out and play overseas, more players from other countries are serving in Chinese clubs. The introduction of foreign players allows Chinese players to directly experience different styles of football. Later today, our special World Cup series will take you to Guo'an Club in Beijing to see how Yugoslav players are coping with Chinese football.
Wearing number 17, Chinese football player Sun Jihai played for Manchester in the last season. The English football club bought Sun Jihai for 2 million pounds in February. Some may question whether Manchester got a good deal. But Sun Jihai is sure of his value.
Chinese Footballer Sun Jihai said:" I think it's worth it for Manchester to buy me at this price. There is a lot to prove it. It's very normal."
Manchester, a former first division club, has just been promoted to the English Premier League. Sun Jihai will become the first Chinese player to play in England's most prestigious football league.
Sun Jihai is just one of several Chinese players who are currently serving in European clubs. Another big name in Chinese football, the former head of the national team, Fan Zhiyi, has just suspended a contract with the Scottish club Dundee, where he was the first Chinese to play in the Scottish premier league. Before that, he and Sun Jihai both played for the English club Crystal Palace in 1998.
The transferring of Chinese players to overseas clubs was made easier thanks to the introduction of the premier league system in China eight years ago. Playing in overseas clubs not only brings money to Chinese players and their clubs, but more importantly, it helps players improve their skills by competing against talented overseas peers. It can also boost their confidence and enrich their experience. Lack of confidence and experience are often the major factors that lead to China's defeat at major matches.
The appearance of Chinese football players has also brought excitement to local fans. The handsome Yang Chen plays for the German club, Frankfurt. Affectionately named "Chinese cracker" by locals, he enjoys great popularity among fans.
Yang Chen, Fan Zhiyi and Sun Jihai will all play at this World Cup finals for the Chinese National Team. They have all waited for this moment for so long and are now at the top of their careers. Their overseas experience will be an asset in boosting their performance.
Editor:Hope CCTV.com
|
