tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55585233831072605532024-03-04T21:43:38.081-08:00フトボールFocusサムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-9409745540578775622010-07-14T13:27:00.000-07:002010-07-14T13:44:40.937-07:00Japanese Abroad: Season Preview 10/11<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.tinthethao.com.vn/Data/Image/2010/Thang04/05/Yuto%20Nagatomo2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 340px;" src="http://www.tinthethao.com.vn/Data/Image/2010/Thang04/05/Yuto%20Nagatomo2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yuto Nagatomo </span>(長友 佑都)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">After a string of great performances at the World Cup, Japan's first choice leftback will be moving to Italy to prove his merit.<br /><br />Pre-Cesena:<br />Nagatomo is one of the quickest players to establish himself in Japan. After failing to gain the attention of scouts he decided to play at a University where he established himself as one of the best prospects in Japan. After leaving Meiji University he signed with J1 side FC Tokyo. It was during the 2008 season that Nagatomo showed his quickness and stamina along with some fierce offensive ability. After 3 seasons in the J-League Nagatomo established himself as one of the best fullbacks in the league. It was during the 2008 season that he received his first call-up into the national team in a match against Syria.<br /><br />Present:<br />Nagatomo, as expected, was the starting leftback for Japan in the 2010 World Cup. Despite playing several games as right back for his club FC Tokyo, Nagatomo showed no signs of losing his ability at the position of leftback. He impressed by supporting Japan's lack luster offensive and showing calm and collective defense in the face of some of the best attacking players in the world.<br /><br />Future:<br />Nagatomo will face the tough challenge of playing in an extremely physical league. The key to his success will be his ability to adapt to much bigger and stronger players than he is used to in Japan. The fact that he is playing for a lower tier club could help him mentally because the expectations will not be as high. Another aspect that will play to his advantage is the fact that this will only be a loan move. If it doesn't work out as expected he can always come back. This is an intriguing move because Nagatomo will be the first Japanese defender to ever play in Serie A.<br /></div></div>サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-50397954291786678192010-07-13T14:33:00.000-07:002010-07-13T14:51:47.939-07:00Japanese Abroad: Season Preview 10/11<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/South+Africa+v+Japan+International+Friendly+930FGoj96BPl.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 206px; height: 309px;" src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/South+Africa+v+Japan+International+Friendly+930FGoj96BPl.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eiji Kawashima </span>(川島永嗣)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Japan's "Guardian Deity" will be moving to Sk Lierse in the Belgian Jupilar League next season and its time to look at the past present and future for him.<br /><br />Pre-Lierse:<br />Kawashima began his career at Omiya Ardija where he accumulated 43 caps. He then moved to Nagoya Grampus where his playing time was severely limited by the Seigo Narazaki. Because of the lack of playing time, Kawashima moved to Kawasaki Frontale where he would establish himself as the first-choice goalkeeper and one of the best in the league. Frontale's transformation into one of the power houses of the J-League mirrors Kawashima's own progression into a top class goalkeeper. Despite having one of the worst defenses in the league, Kawashima managed to show his value to the team by making countless saves and helping Frontale to the top of the table.<br /><br />Present:<br />Kawashima was not seen as the first choice goal keeper for Japan until after his great performance against England where he managed to save a penalty kick from Frank Lampard. After that match Kawashima solidified his spot as the first choice goal keeper ahead of longtime rival Seigo Narazaki. Kawashima impressed in his World Cup debut only conceding 2 goals in 4 matches against top sides including the World Cup runner-ups the Netherlands. Kawashima showed a commanding presence in the box and displayed a lot of passion. One of the moments that defines Kawashima was during the Denmark match. Although Kawashima managed to save the first penalty kick attempt he failed to stop the rebound. Kawashima erupted in a fit of anger, banging his fists on the ground. Kawashima shows the kind of passion that only few footballers have.<br /><br />Conclusion:<br />Kawashima will probably have the most difficult time of all of the Japanese players abroad this season. The language barrier will be difficult to overcome. Communication is crucial for goalkeepers and if Kawashima is unable to communicate well then he will have many problems. But if there is one goalkeeper in Japan who I think can succeed in Europe it is Kawashima. The man does not take anything for granted and is a fighter.<br /></div></div><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/HP_ADM%7E1.YOU/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.png" alt="" />サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-12584192298486715542010-07-12T16:35:00.000-07:002010-07-12T16:44:10.037-07:00Japanese Abroad: Season Preview 10/11The next player that I will be discussing is Atsuto Uchida who will be playing for Schalke 04 in the Bundesliga.<br /><br />Pre-Schalke:<br />Uchida has been one of the most promising defensive prospects in the last couple of seasons in Japan. After debuting for Kashima Antlers at the age of 18, he has been the first choice right back for the past 3 seasons. His play has gotten him voted into the J-League Best 11 for the past 2 seasons. Uchida is known for his great defensive play along with some stellar offensive ability. He has been a staple for the national team since he made his debut.<br /><br />Present:<br />Uchida played 5 seasons for the Kashima Antlers and has helped them to 3 straight J-League titles. Uchida did make the final 23 for the World Cup, but did not take part in a single match. Although he was replaced with Komano because of his experience, Uchida should be the first choice right back for Japan for many more years.<br /><br />Conclusion:<br />Uchida will have some heavy competition at Schalke 04 at the position of right back. Rafinha is considered a starter and will probably get the majority of the playing time. Although Uchida is not guaranteed any playing time I believe that this will motivate him to improve which will help him push towards the starting position.サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-7344102506448253272010-07-09T23:53:00.000-07:002010-07-10T00:11:38.312-07:00Japanese Abroad: Season Preview 10/11The first player that I will be discussing is Shinji Kagawa who will be playing for Borussia Dortmund in the upcoming season.<br /><br />Pre-Dortmund:<br />Prior to joining Dortmund Kagawa was leading the scoring charts in J1 with an impressive 7 goals in 11 games from the midfield. Kagawa dominated J2 the previous season with 27 goals in 44 games, securing the scoring title. Kagawa was pretty much carrying Cerezo before his transfer to Dortmund. After the disappointment of not being selected in the World Cup squad, it was announced that Kagawa would be transferring for a measly fee of 350,000 Euros. For Cerezo the loss of Kagawa is huge coupled with Inui's disappointing performances it will be difficult for them to stay up this season.<br /><br />Present:<br />Right now it looks like Kagawa will have to earn his place in the starting eleven. With the addition of Lewandowski, Dortmund has a strong line-up of strikers including Barrios, and Valdez. Although Kagawa will not directly compete with these players he will probably have to adjust to not being the single scoring threat on the team. I think that the most difficult part for Kagawa will be learning to pass more and trust his teammates. He will have to buff up physically, but the most important part will be to learn how to adjust mentally.<br /><br />Conclusion:<br />This will definitely be an interesting season for Kagawa. If he can establish himself as a legitimate scoring from midfield then he will be able to shine.サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-38883334834992434222010-07-09T23:48:00.000-07:002010-07-09T23:51:45.976-07:00BackAfter a long hiatus I have decided to revive this blog and start updating.<br /><br />Here are some of the topics I will be covering this coming season.<br /><br />Japanese players abroad<br />Japanese football (J1, J2, etc)<br />European transfers<br /><br />Stay tunedサムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-74352397581280754722009-06-19T08:46:00.000-07:002009-06-19T08:50:42.159-07:00J1 Predictions June 20Kawasaki-F v Oita (3-0)<br />15:00<br />Shimizu v Yamagata (2-1)<br />15:00<br />G-Osaka v Niigata (3-1)<br />15:30<br />Nagoya v Chiba (2-2)<br />15:30<br />Kashima v Iwata (2-1)<br />16:00<br />Omiya v Kyoto (0-1)<br />18:00<br />Kashiwa v FC-Tokyo (0-2)<br />19:00<br />Hiroshima v Kobe (3-2)<br />13:00<br />Yokohama-M v Urawa (2-2)<br />14:00サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-69488475967907001982009-06-19T08:40:00.000-07:002009-06-19T08:45:56.285-07:00Inamoto joins Stade Rennais<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7u2ccG5CY1dqGYVWYLD_uQGX1eQu3sS7TMw8CPULdssjI0mTvXZEGNG2e0eU_48Ne7NxAKulOO-YK0MWuLEE1q4DIOQiIRiK19g7YpACEZrLYto18uV9eMajkshE78So1mRjpApixIhM/s1600-h/15321.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349065398918019538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7u2ccG5CY1dqGYVWYLD_uQGX1eQu3sS7TMw8CPULdssjI0mTvXZEGNG2e0eU_48Ne7NxAKulOO-YK0MWuLEE1q4DIOQiIRiK19g7YpACEZrLYto18uV9eMajkshE78So1mRjpApixIhM/s400/15321.jpg" border="0" /></a> World Cup 2002 hero Junichi Inamoto has joined Stade Rennais. Inamoto played for German club Eintracht Frankfurt. I think that this would be a good move for him and that he will adjust nicely to the Ligue 1. Good luck to him in the coming season and hopefully he can help Rennes qualify for Europe<br /><div></div><br /><div></div>サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-18127359371498587642009-06-17T19:13:00.000-07:002009-06-17T19:22:02.013-07:00Transfer Talk (6-17-09)Giuseppe Rossi (Villareal Forward) -----> Juventus<br /><br />Much needed fire power for Juventus. Rossi would be a good replacement for the aging Amauri and Del Piero. He has proven himself on both the club level and international level. The only downside is that it may take him a while to adjust to the physical nature of the Italian game.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (8/10)<br /><br />Migueal Veloso (Sporting Midfielder) -----> Bolton<br /><br />Hasn't had the best season, but still is young. He has a lot of potential and could significantly help Bolton compete in the premier league.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (6/10)サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-53803626490399500082009-06-16T09:05:00.000-07:002009-06-16T09:22:23.069-07:00Transfer Talk (6-16-09)<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sebastian Frey (Fiorentina Goalie) -----> Barcelona</span><br /><br />This is a good buy for Barcelona. Many people last year criticized Victor Valdes as being the weakest link in Barcelona's starting eleven. He had decent a season, but if Barcelona want to continue winning then they will have to sign a replacement. Frey is 29 and still has a good amount of years ahead of him. He has Champions League experience which definitely a plus.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (9/10)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thomas Vermaelen (Ajax Defender) -----> Arsenal</span><br /><br />Arsenal are in desperate need of a center back. With William Gallas seeing the best of his days gone and Kolo Toure looking for a move out, Arsenal need this man. At the young age of 23, he has already captained Ajax. He can also play left-back which is good to have.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (8/10)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">David Bentley (Tottenham Winger) -----> Aston Villa</span><br /><br />This would be a gamble for Aston Villa, but I think that it could possibly work. Bentley never fit in with Tottenham's style of play and with the emergence of Aaron Lennon he has lost playing time. Imagining Ashley Young and Bentley streaking down the wings would pose a nightmare to any EPL club.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (7/10)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Philippe Mexes (Roma Defender) -----> AC Milan</span><br /><br />A highly respected centerback would substantially boost AC Milan's aging back four. At the young age of 26, Mexes could prove to be a good by for AC Milan. Already proven in both the Champions League and Serie A, Milan will not have to worry about him adjusting to their style of play.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (8/10)サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-15141257852493928692009-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:002009-06-15T19:42:53.848-07:00WCQ Asia Group A Japan V. Australia Preview<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTzjtg-kYk5tgdaC2qentTInTgGtudHqJhn18Lt6w0lMoI-Z0HEYI_cB4ZZ17ycC9NR3Eoo_NSkfeOcolis2-8icbRRKpz5Ah9Gyvnrjwjkg1sCfEMYn4MvBCjraEf5qrvVZ53fPB0aQ/s1600-h/JFA+Banner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 29px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTzjtg-kYk5tgdaC2qentTInTgGtudHqJhn18Lt6w0lMoI-Z0HEYI_cB4ZZ17ycC9NR3Eoo_NSkfeOcolis2-8icbRRKpz5Ah9Gyvnrjwjkg1sCfEMYn4MvBCjraEf5qrvVZ53fPB0aQ/s400/JFA+Banner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347750377019600418" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Japan V. Australia<br /><br />Since both of these teams have already qualified this match will be a warm-up for the World Cup. This is a good match for Japan because it will allow them to test out some fringe players and see who can play at the top level. It is also a good match because many of the foreign based players will not be there so they can test the strength of the squad. I fully expect Japan to attack from the start like they did in their last match against Australia. Last time Japan created a dozen chances, but was unable to score. This time I hope that Japan can finish the chances it creates.<br /><br />Predicted starting line-up.<br /><br />----------------Narazaki------------------<br />----------Tulio----------Komano----------<br />----Uchida--------------------Nagatomo--<br />-------------Endo-----Abe----------------<br />-------------------------------------------<br />-------------Matsui----Kengo-------------<br />-------------------------------------------<br />-------------Tamada---Okazaki-----------<br /><br />4-2-2-2<br /><br />Man to Watch: Shinji Okazaki<br /><br />Has been an important figure in the last couple of games. He seems to be the only solution for Japan's striker problem and if he comes through in this game then he will cement his spot in the squad.<br /><br />Prediction:<br /><br />Japan 2 - Australia 2サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-74627672737484384102009-06-15T10:51:00.000-07:002009-06-15T11:05:49.765-07:00Transfer Talk (6-15-09)Here's some analysis on today's transfer rumors.<br /><br /><strong>Lisandro Lopez (Porto Forward) -----> AC Milan</strong><br /><br />I think that this would be a great buy for Milan. Lopez proved himself against Manchester United in the Champions League and I can see him playing out wide or up top with Pato.<br /><br />Transfer rating (7/10)<br /><br /><strong>Peter Crouch (Portsmouth Forward) -----> Manchester City</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />This would be a bad buy for Manchester City. Peter Crouch was decent this season, but not good enough to play for Manchester City. I know that they had striker problems, but with Jo regaining his form at Everton. I believe that he and Robinho could make a formidable pair. Plus Crouch would probably cost a fortune.<br /><br />Transfer rating (3/10)<br /><br /><strong>Gael Clichy (Arsenal Left-back) -----> Real Madrid</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />I belive that this is one transfer that Real Madrid need to make. Their defense was incredibly weak last season. Heinze is a terrible left-back and was consistantly beat by faster opposition. Arsenal won't mind selling Clichy because of Traore and Gibbs.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (9/10)<br /><br /><strong>Keirrison (Palmeiras Forward) -----> Atletico Madrid</strong><br /><strong></strong><br />He could improve astronomically at Atletico. Under the guidance of Forlan and Aguero he could become a world class striker in a matter a years. Atletico have always been known for getting the best out of their players so this should be no difference. If Aguero was to leave this summer then he could play a big part in their season next year. He was the joint top scorer in Brazil at the age of 20. He is great a finishing and would play well in Spain.<br /><br />Transfer Rating (8/10)サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-26757265113883508582009-06-14T16:19:00.000-07:002009-06-14T16:58:14.319-07:00Tokushima Talk | June 14, 2009<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpa5sfeDgml9Ncrwuxc5CKprcr2PHtGORu2Eg0k52tYR-5BTEIov8JtL9vW8xAEJPxv6u06Nc5mC1x3kL9tjvy3Sg6tgtWn4wKsDRx77KvgdbS_guOnPXCgW9cjSLEfP68nUtVOOjWB0/s1600-h/Tokushima+Talk+Banner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 30px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpa5sfeDgml9Ncrwuxc5CKprcr2PHtGORu2Eg0k52tYR-5BTEIov8JtL9vW8xAEJPxv6u06Nc5mC1x3kL9tjvy3Sg6tgtWn4wKsDRx77KvgdbS_guOnPXCgW9cjSLEfP68nUtVOOjWB0/s400/Tokushima+Talk+Banner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347327775651959394" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">June 14, 2009</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tokushima Vortis vs Consadole Sapporo (Atsubetsu)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1-1</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Quirino (26')</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ishida (66')</span><br /><br />Today's game was one of importance, Tokushima were level on points with Consadole pushing for a chance at promotion. I think that the result was fair. Consadole<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.vortis.jp/site_data/game/dl_216_img1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://www.vortis.jp/site_data/game/dl_216_img1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> started off strong with a string of chances. Tokushima was able to overcome them with some chances of their own, but in the 26th minute Miyazawa sent Quirino a nice through ball. Quirino burst past the defender and placed a nice finish into the right side of the net. After this Tokushima went more on the offensive with key man Ishida wasting a couple of chances. In the 2nd half things got a lot better for Tokushima. Bae Seung Jin was a constant menace on the right side and put in a couple of nice crosses. Tokushima finally scored off of a corner, Ishida put in a difficult header that left the keeper still. Tokushima had a couple of chances after that, but Consadole went into total offensive mode and almost snatched the game in the last couple of minutes. Fortunately the game stayed tied and so did their positions.<br /><br />Man of the match:<br />Ishida<br /><br />Stats:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shots:</span><br />Consadole- 12 | Tokushima- 9<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Freekicks:</span><br />Consadole- 11 | Tokushima- 14<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Corners: </span><br />Consadole- 2 | Tokushima- 4<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Offsides:</span><br />Consadole- 2 | Tokushima- 1<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Yellows:<br /></span>Consadole- 1 | Tokushima- 3<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /></span>サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-64067926141413482102009-06-14T13:29:00.000-07:002009-06-14T15:34:22.193-07:00Top 10 Japanese Talents<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rgYkFskcQriQss2MMVri-rcY3P6Mh_2qCWmCa6ulEM1Dd2U1Um7XxbcoSWbTYMfneZWw94Q-yiFvCRBkk9jmHQZ9HqttbRUMabvboRXI_5M1nhS8YNG5P-TmgVFgi_rMht3sVirAXvA/s1600-h/JFA+Banner.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 29px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rgYkFskcQriQss2MMVri-rcY3P6Mh_2qCWmCa6ulEM1Dd2U1Um7XxbcoSWbTYMfneZWw94Q-yiFvCRBkk9jmHQZ9HqttbRUMabvboRXI_5M1nhS8YNG5P-TmgVFgi_rMht3sVirAXvA/s400/JFA+Banner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347287746322261186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />With Japanese football improving constantly, I have noticed a couple of young stars that could compose the team of the future. Here is my take on the top 10 Japanese players (in the J-League) that will be stars in the future (or already).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">10. Gotoku Sakai | Albirex Niigata | Defender</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800567.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800567.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> | <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 18</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">This full-back was able to keep Mu Kanaz</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">aki in q</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">uiet during Albirex Niigata's match against Oita Trinita. His marking is impeccible and his speed makes him one of the more promising backs coming out of Japan.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />9. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Takumi </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sanga-fc.jp/img/club/profile/card-1-324-1-1-1-300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 156px;" src="http://www.sanga-fc.jp/img/club/profile/card-1-324-1-1-1-300.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Miyayoshi | Kyoto Sanga Purple | Forward</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">| Age: 16</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The youngest player in the J-League right now. He </span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">has shined for Japan on an international level for the U-17 national team. He made a pair of appearances </span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">last year and will be looking to establish himself in the coming years</span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">. He is one to watch out for next year.</span></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />8. Yoichiro Kakitani | Cerezo Osaka | Forward |</span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Age: 19</span><br /></span></span></span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829868/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600065.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 117px; height: 152px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829868/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600065.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Once a big star in Japan, he has slowly crept back into the shroud of J2. The former AFC Youth Championship MVP is no longer hounded by the media anymore. This does not mean that he has gotten worse. Rec</span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">ently scoring a brace for Cerezo Osaka he has quietly emerged once again. If Cerezo fail to be promoted and Inui and Kagawa leave, then he will definitely be a shoe in</span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> next season.<br /></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />7. Takashi Usami | Gamba Osaka | Forward</span></span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800763.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800763.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">| Age: 17</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Made both his AFC Champions League and J-L</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">eague debut </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">this season. He scored in his debut against F.C. Seoul and started against last season's champions Kashima Antlers. He may be small in stature, but just like Messi he is quick which can be attributed to his low center of gravity. His go</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">al against F.C. Seoul is a testament to his finishing and he finally got a taste of the league.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br />6. Yuya Osako | Kashima Antlers | Forward</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/24/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/450/900142.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 132px; height: 152px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/24/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/450/900142.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;">| Age: 18</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fresh out of high school Osako has shown that he can compete with in the highest level of football in Japan. I admit that I was skeptical when the Japanese media labeled him as a "High School Superstar" even with his record-breaking scoring in the National High School tournament. But he has proved me wrong with his first goal in the J-League and 2 goals in the AFC Champions League. H</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">e has very good footwork and speed. His current manager, Olivei</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">ra, claims that he will be in the squad for South Africa 2010, but only time will tell.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">5. Genki Haraguchi | Urawa Reds | Forward </span><span>| <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 18</span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800820.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 151px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800820.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">A relative unknown before this season, he has emerged as a regular for Urawa Reds. He has already scored his first league goal and </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">scored an impressive finish against Omiya Ardija in the Nabisco Cup. He has really good vision and footwork, not to mention his finishing which is of the highest order. Has been recently overshadowed by teammate Naoki Yamada.<br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />4. Mu Kanazaki | Oita Trinita | Midfielder</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829858/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/700751.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829858/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/700751.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> | <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 20</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Broke into the scene at the age of 19 last season. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">He has become a pivotal part of Oita's attack which the dribbling skills to match. This year has not been very good for him, but the injuries have been harsh. He has the ability to hold up the ball and pick good passes. Not to mention a powerful leg. He has extremely good techinical abilities.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />3. Naoki Yamada | Urawa Reds | Midfielder </span><span>| <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 18</span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800758.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829859/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/800758.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">The 4th youngest Japanese international has come along way in the last couple of monthes. Before this year nobody knew about him, bu</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">t like many others on this list he has broke into the J-League and national team. He has great vision and will continue the line of fine Japanese midfielders. He is similar to Endo, but with more speed and stamina. He has demonstrated his passing abilities, registering an assist in his debut for the national team.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />2. Atsuto Uchida | Kashima Antlers | Defender </span><span>|<span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 21</span></span></span><span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829857/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600027.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829857/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600027.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Already a regular on for both Kashima Antlers and the national team, Uchida has already proven himself on both a country and continental level. He is a complete full-back with a great crossing ability and sta</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">mina. He is a regular for the national team and has already been named into the J-League all-star team. A career in Europe beckons.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br />1. Shinji Kagawa | Cerezo Osaka | Midfielder </span><span>| <span style="font-weight: bold;">Age: 20</span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829868/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600064.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 150px;" src="http://ca.c.yimg.jp/sports/1244829868/img.sports.yahoo.co.jp/soccer/jleague/player/150/600064.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">The next great Japanese midfielder is this man. From Nakata-> Nakamura->Kagawa. Of all the promising midfielders in Japan he is the cream of the crop. He WILL be more successful than Nakata and Nakamura. He has been invited to have trials in Barcelona and Real Madrid. He is currently 2nd in scoring in J2 and completely dominating opposing teams. He has great vision, but also scoring ability. He is the future of Japanese football and don't be surprised if he joins a big club in the future.</span>サムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5558523383107260553.post-75300267121456036372009-06-14T12:18:00.000-07:002009-06-14T12:27:30.924-07:00Hello footie fansThis is my new blog.<br /><br />On this blog I will be discussing football news along with Japanese football.<br /><br />I will try to update several times a day so stay tuned.<br /><br />Thank youサムライーBLUEhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885759556109996714noreply@blogger.com0