English football icon Michael Owen sent local fans into a frenzy on the evening of May 17 with a surprise visit to a grassroots football match in Guangzhou.

The former Ballon d'Or winner greeted spectators at Yuexiushan Stadium and even tried speaking a few words of Cantonese, drawing thunderous applause from the stands.

Michael Owen signs autographs for fans on their jerseys.

In a tribute to local culture, Owen received a unique bouquet made of fresh lychees, a signature agricultural product of Guangdong, which left the ex-Liverpool star smiling broadly. Fans responded by unfurling a huge TIFO printed with his portrait, highlighting the Premier League star's lasting worldwide popularity.