Former Sheffield United star finds himself at the centre of an internet and political storm

Former Sheffield United strike Hao Haidong is at the centre of a media storm in his native China after a video appeared on the internet of him apparently calling for the ruling Communist Party to be removed and replaced with a new government.
James Shield
By James Shield
Published 5th Jun 2020, 17:05 BST
Updated 5th Jun 2020, 17:05 BST
A security person prepares to clear the stands as delegates leave after the closing session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, May 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)A security person prepares to clear the stands as delegates leave after the closing session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, May 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)
A security person prepares to clear the stands as delegates leave after the closing session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, May 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)

Appearing on YouTube - a platform banned by Beijing - Hao seemingly criticised his country’s handling of a range of issues including Hong Kong, Tibet and the Covid-19 outbreak.

“The Communist Party should be kicked out of humanity,” Hao declared in the videos, which were published on the politically sensitive anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre 31 years ago.

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However, with all mention of Hao’s comments since being removed from the web in China, many of his compatriots are now claiming the incident was part of an elaborate hoax.

Hao, who turned 50 last month and is now believed to reside in Spain, made one appearance for United in 2006 before announcing his retirement. He was capped more than 100 times by China during a career which also saw him represent Bayi FC and Dalian Shide.

Related topics:ChinaCovid-19YouTubeSpain