Zheng happy not to be centre of attention

China captain Zheng Zhi has had no trouble making an impact in the Premiership, but the Charlton midfielder is still getting used to being ignored on the streets of London.

Chinese international Zheng Zhi of the Premiership side Charlton manages to keep the ball under his control in a league match agaisnt Wigan Athletic1 on Saturday, March 31, 2007. [Osports.cn]

The 26-year-old has quickly established himself as a key figure at struggling Charlton since his loan move from Shandong Luneng in January.

But, while he is used to being feted where ever he goes in China, Zheng has yet to earn similar status in England, where the likes of Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Thierry Henry are the biggest stars.

Zheng has no complaints though because he has his family with him in London and can always go to the capital city's Chinatown district if he is feeling starved of attention.

"Football-wise, things don't seem much different than China, although there are obviously more famous players here," Zheng said.

"There are other differences because in China I am quite well known. The only time I am recognised here is when I walk through Chinatown.

"I go to English lessons three times a week and am feeling settled and there are lots of good Chinese restaurants in London.

"My mum and dad are now living with me along with my wife and child."

Zheng is playing a crucial role in Charlton's fight to stay in the Premiership and, after scoring on his full debut² in a 2-0 win against Newcastle earlier this month, he is keen to prolong his stay in England past the end of the season when his loan expires.

"I am enjoying life here," he added. "I am still trying to adjust but the players are really helping³ me a lot.

"I would like to stay at Charlton. I like it here a lot. I think here in the future, more Chinese players will come to England."