Everton midfielder Li Tie has returned from Briton to join the Chinese men's national squad.

He was not able to practice with his teammates because of a leg injury, but jogged laps at training at the Guangzhou Tianhe Stadium.

It's not clear whether he can play during China's crucial world cup qualifier against Hong Kong next Wednesday.

"I came back this time to shoulder the duty with everyone, it depends on the head coach whether I will play and, if I do, where I will play. I just have to show my best during training."

With two players out through injury, Dutch coach Arie Haan has called on two fullbacks, Zhou Ting and Zhang Yaokun to support.

Munich 1860 Chinese midfielder Shao Jiayi is expected to join the team on Monday.

(CRI November 15, 2004)