Manchester City defender Sun Jihai said that he felt puzzled with a new role as a striker in China's 1-0 victory over Qatar in their Asian Cup Group A match Sunday.

Sun, who played only 15 minutes in China's first two matches, was sent on by Dutchman Arie Haan late in the match to replace striker Li Jinyu.

Sun, who mostly play as a right back, was nearly to scoring a second goal for China, heading the ball against the crossbar.

"It's a good chance, but I don't feel good to play upfront," he said. "It's a sudden decision by the coach. But I will be happy to try this position."