Hulk back to training amid suspension rumors

BEIJING - Shanghai SIPG striker Hulk has returned to training with the Chinese Super League side ahead of their AFC Champions League group match against Sydney FC, after having reportedly been suspended from training sessions and team meetings.

SIPG posted a picture on social media on Sunday night showing Hulk training with the team that day in Doha ahead of their tie with Sydney FC, with the Shanghai side only needing a draw to qualify for the 16-team knockout stage.

Hulk was reported to have been excluded from training sessions and team meetings after falling out with head coach Vitor Pereira during the Shanghai side's 1-0 loss to Japanese outfit Yokohama F. Marinos last Wednesday.

When the Brazilian forward was taken off in the 68th minute, he refused to shake hands with Pereira and instead headed straight into the dressing room.

Hulk was not included in the team that subsequently beat Yokohama F. Marinos 2-1 on Friday. The Shanghai side next face Sydney FC on Tuesday.