Player Profile : Tao Wei

Tao Wei - 陶伟

The vitals:
age - 31
position - midfield
number - 15
height - 176 cm
years with Guoan - 11
appearances - 238
goals - 36

I feel a little sorry for Tao, who last night was in BTV's studio in Beijing providing commentary, trying to be optimistic and not attacking his teammates who looked utterly useless in the 1st half, knowing he was far away from the action and had no way of influencing the result that led his team with no hope to advance.

Anyways, Tao is another Beijinger who is also a lifelong Guoan player, though he's only come to real prominence over the past 3 or 4 seasons as a star. While he's always been a solid role player, in recent years, his flair and skills have been brought to the forefront, with him earning his first national team cap at the ripe old age of 26.

Tao played youth football in Beijing before joining the legendary Jianlibao youth team that traveled to Brazil in 1994. His Brazilian experience can be seen in the way he plays, possessing a creative streak and instinct rarely seen in Chinese footballers. His ability to improv on the pitch and make something out of nothing is why he's an exciting player who the fans have fully embraced.

He's also extremely adaptable, capable of playing in a number of positions on the pitch, depending on the squad's needs. He can play up top as a forward, but is often best slotted behind them in a support role. While he isn't the quickest player on the pitch, he's capable of handling wing play and, with a familiar central back like Xu Yunlong behind him, he can also fit into the holding midfield position.

Tao served as the side's captain last season and serves as one of Xu's deputies this year. He regularly handles corner and free kicks and is one of the better CSL players at challenging a keeper from distance.

Loyal, hardworking, with (more than) a bit of flair is why Tao Wei is a true Gongti Legend.