Source: Daily_Mail
Ex-Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt ties up deal with Hong Kong side South China
On the move: Butt is set to come out of retirement [LNB]Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt could be set to come out of retirement after accepting an offer to train with Hong Kong side South China. [LNB]Butt, who called time on a career that also included stints atNewcastle and Birmingham City in May, will arrive in the territorylater this month and will feature in South China's league game againstTSW Pegasus before deciding whether to remain with the club until theend of the season.[LNB]'I wanted some time out of the game to concentrate on my next stepeither in or out of football. However I feel fit and when South ChinaFC approached me to join them for a week's training and a game, theprospect excited me,' said the 35-year-old former Englandinternational. [LNB]'I could see from their team and commitment to the game that thiswas something I wanted to be a part of. I have been to China many timeswith Manchester United and England and the reception we received wasalways unbelievable. [LNB] 'The development and growth of Asian football since 2002 has been phenomenal and can be seen from the influence of Asian players in the Premiership. I am really looking forward to this new experience and the challenges it will bring.'[LNB] Champagne supernova: Butt won six Premier League titles with Manchester United [LNB] Chairman Steven Lo believes the acquisition of Butt could help South China capture next year's AFC Cup, the Asian version of the Europa League. South China reached the semi-finals in 2009 before losing to eventual winners Kuwait SC.[LNB]'Everyone is excited by Nicky's arrival and the knowledge and experience he can bring to the team,' he said. [LNB]'We are always looking to attract talent to strengthen our squad and this demonstrates our commitment to that. Nicky's records internationally and domestically speak for themselves and I am sure he will receive a fantastic reception when he arrives at Hong Kong Stadium. [LNB]'I myself am also excited to meet Nicky and discuss with him the about playing South China for the remainder of the season, including in the AFC Cup, which is always our goal to win.'[LNB] Ex-Manchester United midfielder Butt considering shock Hong Kong move Free agent Nicky Butt considering offer from Preston boss Darren Ferguson to extend his playing days [LNB] Explore more:People: Nicky Butt Places: United Kingdom, China
