As a key figure for an Eastern side that are competing in a formidable AFC Champions League Two group, and are top of the local Premier League, Yu has been managing an unprecedented workload.
He said the relentless cycle of games was “not the same as in Europe, where the intensity is much higher”. But the 23-year-old added that he was making a number of sacrifices to remain fit and fresh. Yu was among the players who stayed back in the hotel when Westwood arranged a beach bar team night out in Fiji during the September Fifa window.
“I have had to rest and recover much more [than in previous seasons],” Yu said. “There are things I refrain from doing, such as going out and seeing friends.
“I go to sleep earlier, eat better and go to the physio more often. Sometimes, I feel more [tiredness] in some muscles, but I have to play with it.
“I prioritise my football and feel [a dedicated lifestyle] is the way for me to perform at my best and face these challenges. My goal is to play outside Hong Kong and I have to do these things to take the next step.
“Everyone has their own way of dealing with their career and the games. Some will feel more comfortable and happier if they see their friends. I respect everyone’s decisions.
“I feel happy when I see friends, but I need to rest and give my body time to settle.”
“In Europe, 17- and 18-year-olds are considered the young players,” Yu said. “Being young is used as an excuse here.
“[People say], ‘he can make mistakes, he’s still young, he needs experience’. Every player makes mistakes, but age shouldn’t be an excuse for me.
“I need to step up. I am younger than a lot of players, but I do not have the attitude and mindset of a young player.”
https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3286031/hong-kong-star-vowing-provide-more-aggression-help-team-climb-fifa-world-rankings