Brazil-born Elkeson's first day in Chinese national soccer team

GUANGZHOU - For 30-year-old Brazil-born striker Elkeson, the first Monday of September was his first day in the Chinese national soccer team.

"It is a very special day today, I woke up at 4:30 in the morning because I am feeling anxious," Elkeson said, surrounded by a group of reporters from across the country, most of which cover the national team for years.

The reporters knew it was a special day for Chinese soccer too. Many fans, especially players, had expected Elkeson's arrival could boost China's attacking line.

"My teammates were very happy to meet me in the national team, there is a very friendly atmosphere there," Elkeson said.

Two weeks ago, Elkeson was named in Marcello Lippi's squad, becoming the first footballer in the national team without Chinese ancestry.

Lippi called up the players to reunion in Guangzhou on Monday to prepare for the upcoming Qatar World Cup qualifiers. China will play a visiting match at Maldives next Tuesday.

Elkeson will be the Italian's first choice at center forward position.