PAULINHO WARNED OVER ADVERT

Guangzhou Evergrande midfielder Paulinho has been asked by Chinese football authorities to end his involvement with an overseas betting company, urging all players in the Chinese Super League to "be strict with their public image". Paulinho featured in the advert for a Philippines-based gambling company alongside Tsukasa Aoi, an actress and model who has appeared in adult films in Japan. Gambling and pornography are illegal in China and the Chinese Football Association issued a statement on Saturday evening warning Paulinho about his future behaviour. "Guangzhou Evergrande have criticised Paulinho and asked him to stop the commercial activities with the betting company immediately. We here again urge that, as role models for youth and the public, professional players be strict with their public image, take a positive lead and maintain a healthy football environment."    –Reuters