Source: Daily_Mail
Kung football! Shaolin monks show Rooney and De Jong how it's done
These shaolin monks are performing acrobatics on the football pitch which make Wayne Rooney and Nigel De Jong's efforts look like Karate Kid's play. [LNB]The monks at the world famous Shaolin Temple are aiming to improve China's poor football performance - they've appeared at just one World Cup tournament - with a new training school which combines football with kung fu.[LNB] Jackie Chan style: The monks' brand of football would make for entertaining viewing[LNB]Leading the initiative is Shi Yanlu, who believes the disciplines of kung fu will benefit young footballers.[LNB]Forty young monks have been selected to train at the school and will train under martial arts experts and former international footballers.[LNB] Anything Roo can do: A young monk performs a dramatic overhead kick, much like Rooney's effort against City[LNB]And, as the pictures show, they are already bringing a unique style to the world's game, and showing as much, if not more skill than established internationals such as Manchester United's Wayne Rooney and Manchester City's Nigel de Jong.[LNB]Yanlu said: 'Right now, China's football performance is really disappointing. We hope by combining kung fu elements and spirit, Chinese football can perform better.'[LNB] Future boys: The monks have received state backing from the Chinese government[LNB]'They have superb physical qualities, and they are learning things very quickly. We will try to meld the kung fu into the football training, hopefully improving the level of Chinese football,' added Yanlu.[LNB]'The kids here all have a spirit of hard-work. We will invite some outstanding coaches to teach them. Hopefully we can have several international football stars of the future here.'[LNB]The Shaolin Monk Football Training Base is being backed by the China Football Association which has provided equipment, including 1,000 footballs. It now plans to build more pitches for students to play on. [LNB] That's how it's De Jong: The Holland midfielder sticks the boot in (right)... but the monk sails clear (left)[LNB] Torres warns Fabregas over proposed summer switch to BarcelonaCapello warns Carroll over boozing as England prepare to unleash ?35m manExpect absolute chaos! Fergie blasts FA over decision to stage Manchester derby showdown at WembleyTop of the league: Manchester United is most hated company in Britain[LNB] Explore more:People: Wayne Rooney Places: The Netherlands, China
