Quick soccer fix inadequate, insiders say

Naturalization can't replace 'plodding' work of youth training in long term

With naturalization now a legal solution in China for some soccer players, pundits have called for more consistent investment in the country's own youth training for long-term success.

The appearance of midfielder Nico Yennaris in a Chinese Super League match representing Beijing Guoan on Saturday made history as the London-born player became the first naturalized talent to be eligible for action in the country's top domestic league as a Chinese citizen.