A tale of two countries – Chinese footballers' British struggles
Updated: 2015-10-22 09:15
(chinadaily.com.cn)
|
|||||||||||
Li Tie – Champions League bench-warmer
Everton (2002-2006)
File photo of Li Tie at Everton. [Photo/IC] |
Li Tie's appearance at Everton in 2002 was a by-product of a sponsorship deal.
The former Chinese international went through the first season in Merseyside better than expected. Then manager David Moyes started the defensive midfielder on most of his 29 league appearances in the 2002-03 season.
The following three years, however, were marred by injuries. He only played five league matches in 2003-04 before a broken leg ruled him out for 12 months.
The almost forgotten player finally got called up for a Champions League qualifier on August 10, 2005, only to be benched and watch his team's 1-2 loss to Villarreal.
In July 2006 Li moved to Sheffield United where he spent another two injury-depleted seasons before returning to China in 2008.
Related Stories
Xi's wish to visit Theatre of Dreams dashed 2015-10-19 15:03
Today's Top News
Former envoy recalls 'China hand' Helmut Schmidt
Alibaba breaks sales record on Nov 11 shopping spree
Britain's Cameron appeals to EU reform doubters
October inflation eases to 1.3%, producer prices fall again
Asia-Europe cooperation will counter low growth
Britain can survive outside EU: PM Cameron
WADA recommends banning of Russian athletes
Myanmar parliament speaker concedes election loss
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Xi just needs to turn up for a grand welcome |
Stepping up |
Rural families still hope for male heirs |
Blue skies over Beijing ... for now |
V-Day parade for 70th WWII anniversary |
Tianjin blasts: Death, damage and bravery |