Nine top footballers switch nationalities to Chinese in quest for World Cup glory

Brazil-born Elkeson has become the first footballer without Chinese heritage to be picked for a national squad [Courtesy]

China could soon be able to field a national team made up almost entirely of players born elsewhere after authorities said nine foreign footballers were switching allegiance.

On Wednesday Brazil-born striker Elkeson became the first player without Chinese heritage to be named in the national squad, as China attempts to reach the World Cup for a second time.