China's AFC Asian Cup qualifying begins on Wednesday with a tough first round fixture against Syria. After a tough 2008, the Chinese will be watched closely by critics and opposition alike and after the sacking of Serbian Vladimir Petrovic will be hoping for a form reversal.

This is the only major tournament China has to look forward after being eliminated from the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and interim coach Yin Tiesheng wants the squad to fight for everything whilst he is in charge.

"I will be in charge of the team for a short period, and I hope I can instil a fighting spirit into the team," Yin said.

"Maybe this will be the most noticeable change I can bring to the team."