China's national soccer team coach Zhu Guanghu on Friday announced a 23-strong squad for the away game against Iraq in 2007 Asian Cup qualification.

 

On the list, two more European-based Chinese internationals were added. They are midfielder Shao Jiayi who plays for German second division side Munich 1860 and forward Shi Jun from Swiss first division club Young Boys.

 

Chinese midfielder Li Tie who plays for English premier league side Everton and striker Dong Fangzhuo who joined Manchester United two years ago were fielded in China's first Group E match against Palestine here on Wednesday.

 

Dong, 21, who was immediately loaned to Belgium's Royal Antwerp by Manchester United as he was unable to secure permission to work in Britain, showed his power in the 2-0 win over the Palestinians. But he failed to cash a penalty kick in the second half.

 

Zhu Guanghu said that 21 members of his team will fly to United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday to prepare for the Iraq game on March 1.

 

"Shi Jun and Shao Jiayi will fly to UAE directly from Switzerland and Germany respectively and join us in UAE," Zhu added.

 

"We will at least get one point in the match up with Iraq. No way for loss." Zhu noted.

 

Following are the squad:

 

Goalkeepers: Li Leilei, Li Shuai, Sun Shoubo

 

Defenders: Du Wei, Zhang Yaokun, Li Weifeng, Ji Mingyi, Zhang Yonghai

 

Midfielders: Shao Jiayi, Li Tie, Tao Wei, Cao Yang, Zhao Junzhe, Zou Jie, Li Yan, Wang Liang, Zhao Xuri, Hao Junmin

 

Forwards: Shi Jun, Dong Fangzhuo, Han Peng, Chen Tao, Li Yi

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 25, 2006)