TIANJIN – China captain Zhang Linpeng is in line to play in a crucial World Cup qualifier on March 26, days after quitting international football over the “disgrace” of a 2-2 draw with minnows Singapore.
Known as China’s answer to Sergio Ramos because he also plays at centre back and has numerous tattoos, Zhang said he had enough after his team surrendered a 2-0 away lead at the National Stadium on March 21. The 156th-ranked Lions sit 68 rungs lower than China.
“We can’t even manage to beat Singapore at this point. Personally I find it unbearable. It’s a disgrace. I think it’s time for me to call it a day on my international career,” the 34-year-old fumed in the aftermath.
But with China’s chances of reaching the World Cup for only a second time in the balance, Zhang has had a swift change of heart.
“Thanks to communication with the coaching group, I realised that retirement was not the only option,” the Shanghai Port defender told state broadcaster China Central Television’s Soccer Night programme at the weekend.
“I decided to stay on. Those words I said immediately after the match clearly had a big impact on the team and the players.”
Zhang’s emotional response following the draw may also have had something to do with his part in Singapore’s equaliser, a fact he acknowledged when appearing on the programme.
“In fact, what I wanted to say – but maybe I didn’t handle it the right way – was that my own mistake put the team in that situation,” he added.
“In that respect, first of all as the captain, I don’t think I led the team properly.
“Now I’ve thought back over it, as long as the national team needs me – whether that’s as a first-choice player, as a substitute or even if I don’t get on to the pitch – I’m still willing to give everything I have for this team.”
He also tried to rationalise his previous statement about leaving the international scene by explaining how he was making way for younger players to come into the national team fold.
“I originally meant to make room for young players,” he said. “I am sure they can fill the vacancy that I intended to leave.
“What I said might have brought some impact to the team. I should have paid more attention to the way that I expressed my intention.”
China host Singapore on March 26 in Tianjin and are third in their World Cup qualifying group.
Only the top two advance to the final stage on the road to the 2026 showpiece edition, which is held in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It would be the first time the World Cup will feature 48 teams.
South Korea top Group C on seven points and are expected to go through, with China and Thailand tied on four points, but the Thais have a better goal difference. Singapore have a solitary point. AFP, XINHUA
