Shandong Luneng has had a mediocre season overall in the Chinese Super League, with results falling short of fan expectations. Many felt the team could finish in the top three, but injuries and inconsistent performances have derailed their campaign. One persistent issue is the lack of a reliable replacement for Liu Yang at left-back, a problem that continues to trouble young coach Han Peng. 
Liu Yang, a product of Luneng’s 1995-born generation, stands out for his technical ability and versatility. He can deliver dangerous crosses and score crucial goals. However, a recent rumor about a Chinese national team winger signing for an Italian club in the summer transfer window of the 2026 season has been denied, with Luneng fans sending their well-wishes despite the false report. 
Despite his talents, Liu Yang has experienced lows, making multiple errors in several matches. Fans hoped young prospects would step up and challenge his starting spot, but none of the current left-back candidates have reached his level. As a result, Liu Yang remains an undisputed starter, often playing every minute for both club and country across entire seasons.
From the fans’ perspective, the upcoming home match against Tongliang Long offers a perfect chance to rest Liu Yang. Gao Zhunyi could slot in at left-back, a position he has played effectively before, and his quality is comparable to Liu Yang’s. This would free up the right-back spot for Liu Binbin, who has previously featured as a starter for the Chinese national team under coach Jankovic and deserves more opportunities under Han Peng. 
Of course, Han Peng is unlikely to drop Liu Yang unless the player is clearly fatigued and unable to perform. The match against Chongqing Tongliang Long is a must-win for Luneng, and the team needs strong performances across the board. Resting Liu Yang could be a tactical move to keep him fresh for future challenges.