Two thirds of the way through the Chinese Super League (CSL) season, the big boys are in the final sprint. However, the emergence of Harbour Team has almost settled the title race, with only the question of whether they can seal the title a few rounds ahead of schedule. The battle for second place, on the other hand, is becoming more and more exciting. Last season's AFC Cup winners, Taishan, are getting better and better, making the race for the runner-up spot more confusing.
Taishan has dumped Shenhua and jumped to the second place in the table with a remarkable rebound. Choi Kang-hee's takeover has allowed Taishan to bounce back from the doldrums, and after two months of adjustments, the team has regained its winning rhythm. In addition, key players such as Fernando have performed spectacularly, from the former "water goods" to today's star of hope. In the winter transfer window, Taishan signed Fernando. The player had not played for two years, and was in low form, with only 30 minutes of physical fitness left. But Taishan did not give up, Choi Kang-hee's arrival is to give "small motorcycle" hope. The South Korean manager not only recognized Fernando's strength, but also personally formulated a recovery plan, detailed training and playing time, patiently looking for form. Choi Kang-hee is not only concerned about Fernando's recovery, but also pay attention to his physical condition. To avoid fatigue and injury caused by sudden return after a long absence, Choi Kang-hee rationalized Fernando's playing time. Under the careful care of the rehabilitation teacher, Fernando lived up to his reputation and gradually regained his form. Although still far from his peak, Fernando has started to contribute goals, threatening and even creating penalty kicks. In the 19th round, he came on as a substitute and made a long run to score a national security goal. In the 20th round, a Meizhou Hakka player was fouled by his personal ability, and Pato broke the goal with a penalty kick, which should also be credited to Fernando. It is reported that national team manager Jankovic has paid attention to Fernando and is expected to call him up again. Although Fernando has participated in training, he has never appeared in an official national team match. If he can return, the outside world is full of expectations for the 30-year-old "small motorcycle". Following Wang Dalei, Liu Yang, Sun Guowen, Chen Pu and Liu Binbin, Fernando will become the sixth member of the national team of Taishan.
