Li loving life as China's original import

Including Ai Kesen, Evergrande's Brazil-born quartet are now well accustomed to China, having played in the CSL for several years.

Li says his transition to his new life has gone relatively smoothly thanks to the help of the Chinese Football Association and Guo'an.

"I found my first year in China to be a very good experience for me," said Li. "You know, it is big change for me, coming from England and growing up in England. I had to change many things.

"It's a different lifestyle, different type of football, different language, different people and culture. So, it's a big change, difficult at first, but I love China. I've loved every minute of the experience. Hopefully I can do better this year.

"I don't think it's taken too long to adapt to life in China because the club was great to me. The players also were very helpful, and the staff. They helped me settle in very quickly.

Li reckons having French coach Bruno Genesio at the Guo'an helm has helped him settle in.

"I think with the coach being European and the way he wanted to play wasn't difficult for me to adapt. Just a little bit different in games. But I think I adapted very quickly. I am pleased with my first year."

As well trying to help China reach a first World Cup finals since the 2002 edition, Li is also targeting glory with Guo'an.