Dong set for Man United debut after getting work
permit
Manchester United's China striker Dong Fangzhuo has been given a
British work permit and is clear to make his competitive debut for
the Premier League leaders, the club said on Wednesday.
United signed the 21-year-old from Dalian Shide in January 2004 but
sent him out on loan to Belgian club Royal Antwerp, where he scored
35 goals in 61 games.
Handed shirt number 21, Dong is now eligible to turn out in league
and cup games for United and has signed a new contract until
2010.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told club website manutd.com: "We're
all excited he has eventually arrived and can start playing. "He
sacrificed two-and-a-half years at Royal Antwerp, which showed
great patience and determination.
"He is quick and athletic and he can only improve by training with
the first team squad here."
United signed Dong from Dalian Shide three years ago.
