Martin Lee: the Acquisition of Australian A-League F.C Provides Opportunities to Chinese Players

June 14, 2016, Martin Lee, chairman and CEO of Shenzhen Ledman, spoke in the press conference in Newcastle. On that day, Australian Soccer Association and Shenzhen Ledman Investment held a press conference in Hunter Stadium in Newcastle, and announced that Shenzhen Ledman Investment Co. Ltd had purchased 100 percent stock rights of Newcastle Jets F.C. It means that Chinese capital enters and hosts officially in Australian A-League.

“Purchasing football team overseas means providing stage for Chinese football players,” Lee said and also, he thinks that compared with Europe five major league matches, A-League is fitter to Chinese football players. After the acquisition of Australian A-League F.C, Chinese football player Leilei Ma joined this club in August.
In fact, almost all Chinese capital that have owned clubs overseas hope the participation of more Chinese football players, because it’s a direct way for oversea clubs to appear in the domestic stage.
Many oversea clubs can be an example for Chinese football, not only in the athletics but also in the management. During the journey in China, Newcastle Jets F.C has won three games. Besides, the members of this club participated in many social activities. Lee said:” Though the match of Australian A-League isn’t a main current, in many ways, Chinese football still needs to learn from it.”
“Chinese players can learn their self-management, self-discipline and professional spirit.” Lee said. At present, Chinese assistant coach and manager work for Newcastle Jets F.C. This team is ready for the next Australian A-League.