Thommo's first day in China

It was a long journey to get here - but we made it on time and have just finished our first day in China.

First of all I want to thank Liverpool Football Club for the offer to come out here and take part in some corporate activities and meet and greets. Travelling away with Liverpool always gives me a massive buzz and it was a great feeling yesterday when I was putting the tracksuit on again. I said to my wife that it's been a while since I put these clothes on instead of my suit and tie for Soccer Saturday!

A round up of day one of the tour with Claire Rourke

The journey over was great and it was clear to see how much planning and preparation had gone into the trip. Ray Haughan, the player liaison officer, did a great job in advance by producing a booklet for all of us on the flight with all sorts of information and itinerary guides.

People might think we just get on a plane, go over there and then things happen. But so much work has taken place behind the scenes to get us ready for this tour, and I think it's great for the players to see that the club are going about things in the right manner.

I used to do the organising for our travel when I was at the club, but this is a whole different level nowadays.

I was sat with Rushie on the plane and we were remembering that when we flew out to Tokyo for the World Club Championships many years ago, we all flew economy class. All of us - Paisley, Fagan, Roy and Ronnie included. Yesterday we were on a 70 seater plane solely for club staff with every seat a business seat. It was top class and it should be because we are Liverpool Football Club.

We arrived at 11am and went straight to the hotel, which is just fantastic. The weather is glorious - although very humid - and I think we're set for a great few days here in China.

We went to a training session at the stadium in the evening and it was great for me to sit there and watch the lads. I must admit I do still get jealous when I watch them train because I'd give anything to be back out there again, but they looked sharp and turned in a good session in difficult conditions and on a dry pitch.

Obviously we're all tired at the end of what was a long day and I'm sure we'll all sleep tonight. A few beers should help me on the way!

Tomorrow is a busy day with commercial activities taking place during the course of the afternoon and other events planned as we build up to the game on Wednesday night.

Stay logged on to .tv for more from Thommo over the course of the next week.