It's getting annoying that we go on these tours when it's clear that money spinning is the prime objective, and preparing for the season ahead is merely a secondary concern that they fit in around media duties.
In doing so we sacrifice:
- Concerted preparation for the season to come;
- Progression of transfer activity;
- A Supercup fixture against the SAM continental competition winners with another trophy (however minor) up for grabs;
- Proper rest and recuperation due to time-zones/travel time.
I'd say hopefully this all ends once Son leaves, but the likelihood is it doesn't, as the club will want to cling on to the Sonny afterglow for as long as possible, and will be hoping that Yang captures the imagination over there in a similar fashion. Also plenty of other clubs do it despite not having the ties tat we do due to Son.
I suppose at least we're playing proper opposition and an XI made up of part time sailors from Shanghai this time around.