Chinese soccer fans welcomed Manchester City squad, especially the Chinese star defender Sun Jihai, with a screaming ovation when the City arrived in Shanghai overnight.

 

The British club came to Shanghai to attend a two-match World Series Tournament.

 

The Premiership footballer received a warm welcome by big crowds of fans who waited at the Pudong International Airport. Striker Darius Vassell and goalkeeper David James seemed to be extremely popular among Chinese fans as they were cheered trebly.

 

The Chinese international Sun was the last one to step down the plane. He brought the atmosphere to the climax.

 

Chris Bailey, a Manchester evening news journalist who accompanied the team to China, writes:

 

"It was just as well that we were quick through the airport, or Jihai Sun may have disappeared under a sea of television cameras and mobile phone picture takers. He remains China's David Beckham."

 

Sun received a short TV interview at the airport, saying that he was happy to return to China though whether he can appear in the match still remained in doubt. He hoped there could be more City fans in China.

 

The official website of Manchester City said Sun Jihai had a slight hamstring strain and won't be risked in Friday's game against local side Shanghai Shenhua at the Hong Kou Stadium.

 

The players arrived at their hotel in late afternoon, local time, and immediately had a light training session.

 

(CRI August 3, 2006)