JINAN: China skipper Zheng Zhi has agreed to a two-year deal with English side Charlton Athletic and is keen to help them improve their fortunes.

The 26-year-old, who had a loan spell at Charlton last season, is set to fly to London today to finalise a deal which could see Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng earn £2million.

“Returning to Charlton is not a bad choice,” said Zheng. “As a Chinese player, I have nothing to complain about because we have few choices.”

“Charlton have been expecting me and I feel grateful to them. I should also thank coach Alan Pardew for his trust in me. I am confident I can help Charlton win promotion to the Premier League.”

“It was a pity that I couldn’t land a deal with a Premier League side. There were a lot of reasons.”

“I can’t decide my fate on my own. It couldn’t be achieved unless all the parties including the English clubs, Shandong and me could reach a consensus.”