体坛英语新闻：Corinthians winger Chen "surprised" at China call up

SAO PAULO, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Corinthians winger Chen Zhizhao admits he is "surprised" at being called up for China's national squad for the first time on Monday.

The 24-year-old was selected by coach Jose Antonio Camacho for China's 2015 Asian Cup qualifier against Iraq in Changsha on March 22.

"I am a little bit surprised but happy to be able to play for my country," Chen said during an interview at Corinthians Joaquim Grava training base in Sao Paulo.

"I would like to thank Corinthians, the coach (Tite), the players and everybody at the club."

Affectionately known as "Zizao" by his teammates and fans in Brazil, Chen has quickly become a favourite among Corinthians supporters who recognize his speed and deft finishing skills.

He arrived in Brazil last year on loan from China's Shanghai Shenxin and, despite not featuring in Corinthians' 1-0 victory over Chelsea in December's FIFA Club World Cup final, his impact has been immediate.

Chen has already made three first-team appearances this year, providing stiff competition for places in an attacking formation that also boasts former AC Milan striker Alexandre Pato and Peru international forward Paolo Guerrero.

Despite having yet to cement a place in Tite's first-choice team, Chen says he is feeling more settled every day in his new surrounds.

"My intention is to stay here in Brazil at Corinthians," he concluded.