Kazuyoshi Miura, affectionately known as King Kazu, continues his reign as the 54-year-old completes a loan deal to Suzuka Point Getters. The evergreen Japanese legend will embark on his 37th season as a professional footballer.
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The former Japan international joins fourth-tier Suzuka Point Getters on loan from Yokohama FC. The relegation of Yokohama FC to the second division started the process of the Kazuyoshi Miura loan deal. As reported by Reuters, Miura claims that he wants as much playing time as possible, adding that he wants to keep playing until he turns 60. With this in mind, the 54-year-old, who turns 55 next month, will drop a further two divisions to increase his game time.
Miura continued by saying: “I am grateful for the opportunity to play here and will do my best to contribute to the club on the pitch.” Suzuka finished fourth in the Japan Football League. Perhaps Miura can help them push towards promotion from the fourth tier. Yokohama FC did offer the veteran forward a deal to stay, however, the chance for more game time with Suzuka proved more appealing.
He will join his older brother, Yasutoshi, 56, who serves as the head coach of the club. Miura will wear his famous No. 11 shirt for Suzuka PG as they push for promotion.
Golden Oldie Kazuyoshi Miura
Kazuyoshi’s career is one of utter success. Miura’s career began in 1986 and he plans to continue for some years yet. He’s capped 89 times for Japan and is the second-highest scorer for their national team with 55 goals. He is as well travelled as he is durable. Kickstarting his career in Brazil, Miura then went globe-trotting across Italy, Croatia, and Australia as well as with several Japanese sides.
When the J-League launched in 1993 and he led Verdy Kawasaki to the first two league titles, Miura began as the poster boy of the J-League upon its creation and secured legendary status as a veteran. He is the oldest goalscorer in the league and became the oldest player to feature in March last year at 54-years and 12 days when he came on as a late substitute against Urawa Reds.
Although the lofty heights of the J-League are now behind him, he has a new task to focus on. Suzuka PG is aiming to move up this season and be promoted to the J3 Division. This time they have King Kazu leading the way.
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