Sun Ke faces more pressure than most to perform in international soccer. The 27-year-old forward has been selected for the national team, despite only featuring in China’s League One for Tianjin Quanjian. Now he has the chance to prove he is capable of a higher level.

Sun had a turbulent year. After he transfering from JiangSu to Tianjin Teda for 66 million RMB, a sponsorship row 16 days later meant the forward found himself at League One club Tianjin Quanjian in January.

Sun said, “In the past, when I played for my home team, I just concentrated on the game itself. Later I transfered to Tianjin, which took a very long time. I’ve been through twists and turns. I learned a lot during that process and I think it may help me in my future career.”

It has taken Sun a long time to adapt for China’s top division to the second tier. Going down a level has also meant his status in the national team has dropped.

He said, “I’ve become more and more mature in every aspect. I believe every choice would be a good choice as long as you work hard. So I need to perform my best wherever I am. And Tianjin’s fans are very supportive, I have enjoyed my time here.”

Sun did well at his new club and helped them to the top three in the League meaning he was again called up to the national team by coach Gao Hongbo.

“I am very happy to see that coaches like Gao Hongbo paying close attention to the second-tier league,” Sun said.

“And I am hoping more good players can come out of this league. It is also good for players because they have the motivation to work hard.”

Being the first national team player from League One, there are still difficulties left for Sun to overcome in the near future. During preparations with the national team, League One games are still ongoing and Sun has had little time to rest.

He said, “No matter if you have chance to be on the field or not, I think you have to be confident otherwise it can affect your teammates. The most important thing is to win, so all my personal issues can be put aside.

“We are also hoping that our performances could make our fans feel happy. For every qualification game, we should have the confidence and a determination to win.”

Sun helped China into the knockout stage at the 2015 Asian Cup is now getting ready to help the team earn a spot at the 2018 World Cup.