Chinese football needs root-and-branch reforms

• Source: Global Times
• [22:29 February 04 2010]
• Comments

But if Chinese football takes steps to clean up its act, there will be renewed optimism and room for healthy development, which could one day lead to this country having one of the most competitive leagues in the world.

China has a big population, and a big pool of potential talent to draw from. If the Chinese Super League can get its act together soon, these talents will be nurtured by domestic teams instead of being poached by big European clubs. This will be good for the game at both the club and national level.

Even with the recent crisis, aspiring young footballers can still turn to the women's national team for inspiration. At least they seem to be punching their weight on the international stage.

The author is a Beijing-based British journalist. forum@globaltimes.com.cn