Shenhua sees Sissoko as key to club’s revival
Print Edition
SHANGHAI Greenland Shenhua is betting on its latest import, Mohamed “Momo” Sissoko, to revive the club’s fortunes in the second half of the Chinese Super League season.
Sissoko arrived in Shanghai late on Thursday. The club is waiting for the registration papers to be approved by the China Football Association before tomorrow’s derby match against Shanghai Shenxin. The Mali international, who has been handed the No. 14 jersey, took part in the training session with his new club yesterday.
“It is a great honor to join Shanghai Greenland Shenhua, but it is also a challenge, knowing that the club wants me to be a part of their “revival” plan,” the former Liverpool and Juventus player said when he was introduced to the local media yesterday. “I’m not a person who is good at talking. I hope I can speak instead with my performance on the pitch.”
Shenhua said Sissoko’s vast international experience and his ability to speak French attracted the club.
“He can speak French and communicate with the head coach (Frenchman Francis Gillot) smoothly,” said club official Zhou Jun. “Sissoko is a Muslim, who are known for their self-discipline. Also, his experiences with top clubs in Europe will be an asset to the club and his teammates.”
Zhou claimed that the Malian first caught the attention of the club before the start of the season. But due to quota restrictions on foreign players, it had to hold back on its plans to rope in the defensive midfielder.
Sissoko spent a week in Hong Kong to work on his stamina with Greenland Shenhua’s physio Juan Martin before flying into Shanghai. His Shenhua debut also depends on the state of his physical fitness. The 30-year-old’s preferred jersey No. 22 is with Shenhua keeper Qiu Shengjiong.
The club is in the market for one more foreign player with former Chelsea forward Demba Ba heavily linked with the local outfit. “Demba Ba is willing to come,” said club president Wu Xiaohui. “However, we cannot announce anything before he officially signs for us.”
Wu said the club is still considering whether the newcomer will replace Australian international Tim Cahill. “The team’s well-being is our priority. We need players who can help us win matches,” Wu added.
Shanghai Shenxin also announced the signing of Costa Rica international Michael Barrantes Rojas yesterday. The 31-year-old midfielder moved from Norwegian side Aalesunds FK and played for the national team at the 2014 World Cup.
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