Brazilian midfielder Elkeson has become the latest star in the Chinese Super League after a superb hat-trick on Saturday.

Elkeson's brilliant performance helped defending champion Guangzhou Evergrande beat 2012 league runner-up Jiangsu Sainty, 3-0, and earned him high praise from his coach and soccer commentators.

"Evergrande made a good deal in bringing in this player, though he is not as famous as Lucas Barrios and Dario Conca. His playing style is a good fit for the team," said former Chinese national striker Li Jinyu. "The goals he scored showed his all-roundedness, and the statistics reflect his value.