Players to watch in Group B at the Asian Cup

CHINA

Zheng Zhi - 34, midfielder, Guangzhou Evergrande. The China captain has played in the English Premier League with Charlton Athletic, as well as Scottish giant Celtic. The 2013 Asian Player of the Year also lifted the Asian Champions League trophy with his current Chinese club.

Gao Lin - 28, striker, Guangzhou Evergrande. The powerful striker is inconsistent but can be a real handful for defenders. Has scored more goals in the Chinese Super League than any other domestic striker.

Zhang Linpeng - 25, defender, Guangzhou Evergrande. A powerful and skillful defender who often plays right-back for his club. Has been tipped to move to Europe soon.

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UZBEKISTAN

Server Djeparov - 32, midfielder. The two-time Asian Player of the Year brings creativity, vision and a set piece threat to Uzbekistan, as well as unpredictable hairstyles.

Odil Ahmedov - 27 midfielder, FC Krasnodar. The powerful and mobile midfielder can also play in the back four if necessary. Has a powerful shot and was once linked with Arsenal.

Vitaliy Denisov, 27, Lokomotiv Moscow. An experienced left-back who has become one of the most accomplished in the Russian Premier League.

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SAUDI ARABIA

Nasser Al Shamrani - 30, striker, Al Hilal. The 2014 Asian Player of the Year is in great form, though he also made headlines for spitting at an opponent after the Asian Champions League final.

Salem Al Dawsari - 23, midfielder, Al Hilal. One of the most gifted midfielders in West Asia, Dawsari can provide something special when his team needs it.

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NORTH KOREA

Jong Il Gwan - 22, striker, Rimyongsu. The 2010 Young Asian Player of the Year is awkward for defenders to handle and dangerous in the area. Top scorer at the 2014 Asian Games.

Pak Song Chol - 27, midfielder, Rimyongsu. A playmaker who rarely gives the ball way. Likes to drop deep to receive the ball and then start another attacking move. Played at the 2010 World Cup.