Western Sydney have confirmed the signing of midfielder Jumpei Kusukami from Japanese club Cerezo Osaka.
An attacker who has the ability to generate momentum from both sides of the field, the 28-year-old will join the Wanderers for their third Asian Champions League campaign as a designated player.
Having become familiar with the club after their 2014 victory in the competition, Kusukami wants to follow in the footsteps of another Japanese attacker who sent waves through the A-League.
“It’s my honour to join the Western Sydney Wanderers, one of the best clubs in Asian football. It’s a huge opportunity for me, so I would like to give my best to the Wanderers,” said Kusukami.
“I was told that fans of Wanderers are the best and most enthusiastic in the world by my idol, Shinji Ono. I look forward to this new adventure and to play in front of the fans.
“I believe I can help the Wanderers win titles and play AFC Champions League again.”
Western Sydney CEO John Tsatsimas believes that Kusukami, who now has over 100 J1 League appearances under his belt, will add further attacking dimensions for the side that finished 2015-16 grand final runners-up.
“We’re excited to bring Kusukami to the Hyundai A-League and we look forward to seeing him in Red & Black,” said Tsatsimas.
“Kusukami has played a lot of matches in one of the top leagues in Asia, he has experience in the Champions League and the versatility to play in a number of positions in the front third.”
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
