Boakye reveals Capello's influence on his move to China

Ghana striker Richmond Boakye Yiadom says he agreed to sign for Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Suning because of former England boss Fabio Capello who is currently in charge of the club.

The 25-year-old concluded a three-year deal this week from Serbian side Crvena Zvezda, although he was initially linked with a move to French team Montpellier. The former Juventus forward is expected to make his bow against Guizhou Zhicheng this weekend.

"China offered a life-changing opportunity which I took. It's that simple," Boakye told KweseESPN.

"I [chose Jiangsu] because they're coached by one of the best coaches in the world in Capello. The club's top profile, vision and links with Inter Milan were an extra attraction.

"I see myself as part of Suning's long-term vision and want to stay with the club for a long time. My stepping-stone years were at Sassuolo and Elche," he said.

He added: "The China Super League is very competitive and is growing, with the arrival of some of the top players in the world. I want to be part of that growth, and my intention is to play well here and leave the future to decide itself.

"I see China as a good place to live and work so it is home to me and not a stepping stone," the forward concluded. "I am now an established international so my mind is to settle here."

Although, a section of Ghanaians have raised concerns about the level of football in China, Boakye is optimistic that won't affect his national team call-ups under Kwesi Appiah.

"Ghana give equal opportunities to all players, so I'll still have a chance at national team football and I'll have the chance to compete in one of Asia's most competitive leagues," he said.

"I want to continue my remarkable scoring streak and retain my place in the Black Stars."