Team China announced their roster for the upcoming Olympic qualifier in women's football on Monday, missing star striker Wang Shuang due to a foot injury.
Wang Shuang. /CFP
A statement released by the Chinese women's football team has said Wang has been suffering severe plantar fasciitis that unfortunately leaves her out of this campaign, set to take place from October 29 to November 1 in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province. Her injury worsened during the Hangzhou Asian Games, where the Chinese squad finished in third place.
Team China are faced with tough draws in the Olympic qualifier, as they join Team DPR Korea, Team Thailand and Team South Korea in the group where only the group leaders can enter the final stage of the qualifying games.
"It is deeply regrettable I won't be joining my team for the Olympic qualifier. I have been feeling unwell for a while. I struggle with just even walking sometimes. I've done all I could to recover, but was told by the doctor that I should take a break… I'm very thankful to the Federation for all the help and understanding. My heart is with you all. I believe the Chinese squad will and must enter the final stage, where I will be joining you in my best form!" Wang wrote on social media.
Meanwhile, Team China called up players who are registered in leagues overseas, including Zhang Linyan of Tottenham Hotspur, Shen Menglu of Celtic and others, to fight for a berth in the Paris Olympics.
Roster:
Goalkeepers: Zhu Yu, Xu Huan, Pan Hongyan;
Defenders: Wang Shanshan, Yao Wei, Chen Qiaozhu, Dou Jiaxing, Liu Yanqiu, Wang Linlin, Li Mengwen;
Midfielders: Zhang Rui, Yang Lina, Yan Jinjin, Yao Lingwei, Wu Chengshu, Zhang Linyan, Shen Mengyu, Shen Menglu;
Forwards: Wang Yanwen, Lou Jiahui, Tu Linli, Wurigumula.