Chinese international midfielder Zheng Zhi has left the relegated English Championship team Charlton Athletic after declining a new contract.

The national team captain's contract expired at the end of June, when the Addicks were eager to talk with the star in a bid to keep him.

However, the midfielder - the first Chinese player to represent the Addicks and affectionately known in England as ZiZi - chose to leave after the club was relegated to third division at the end of last season.

He is now trying to find a home in the English Championship or top flight Premier League.

Addicks manager Phil Parkinson told the club's official website: "We have spoken to ZiZi's advisors about a new deal, but they've made clear that he's not keen on playing in the third flight.

"He wants to play at the highest possible level and it's clear they are pursuing other options. Given the situation, I'd like to thank ZiZi for his efforts for the club."

It's been a stuttering period for Zheng, who joined Charlton on a loan in 2006, when it was still in Premier League.

Now 29, he is eager to compete in the Premier League again.

"Anyone who plays in England is hoping to compete in the top flight league. I'm looking forward to coming back. It will be the best result to further develop my career."

Zheng is currently on a vacation in his hometown of Shenyang after representing the national team early last month, but is maintaining a solid training regime.

"My agent is dealing with my transfer. I think the result will come out soon," said Zheng.

Reports claimed a number of clubs including some Premier League teams and Championship club Sheffield United, were chasing ZiZi.

Zheng's fellow international defender Sun Jihai has just ended a seven-year spell with Sheffield United.

After playing 12 games on loan for Charlton in the Premier League in 2006/07, the Addicks beat off several top-flight outfits to convince the two-time China player of the year to stay, despite the club's relegation from the top flight.

Zheng signed a permanent deal at The Valley two days before the start of the 2007/08 season, with Charlton paying his former Chinese club, Shandong Luneng, an initial 1.25 million pounds ($2 million).

After representing his country at the 2008 Olympic Games in his homeland, Zheng returned to Charlton with a groin problem.

He played in the first team against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park only to suffer a foot injury in training a few days later. In total, he played 70 times for the club and scored 11 goals.

(China Daily July 10, 2009)