Chinese footballers banned by state from showing tattoos in strict moral values crackdown
Stars wear bandages, long-sleeved shirts and running tights to hide their inkings which authorities claim need to be hidden to promote 'socialist values'
CHINESE footballers have been banned by the state from showing off their tattoos in a strict moral values clampdown.
Stars wear bandages, long-sleeved tops and running tights to hide their inkings.
Website Sohu claim "detailed measures" on tattoos will be issued by the Chinese Football Association in the coming weeks.
A CFA chief said: "China promotes cultural confidence among nationalities and core socialist values, so as the national team, it has a responsibility to provide a healthy football culture for society and work as an example in this respect."
The new measures will reportedly be rolled out across all levels, affecting the national team, Chinese Super League and even "teenage football matches".
China's Under-23s side covered up their markings in a match against Syria last Sunday.
The crackdown is even stretching to musicians and performers who are said to be banned from appearing on TV shows if they have tattoos.
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The new rules are not thought to affect foreign footballers, however.
England hero David Beckham is a massive draw in the country and regularly visits.
He is covered in artwork but will be exempt.
In 2013, after being prompted by journalists, he lifted up his shirt to reveal Chinese characters tattooed on his left oblique.
The inking is reportedly a Chinese proverb which reads: "Death and life have pre-determined appointments; riches and honour are from heaven."