Player in Focus: Motoki Hasegawa

Hasegawa pulling strings for Alberix Niigata

A dynamic attacking midfielder with remnants of a Christian Eriksen or Bruno Fernandes, Motoki Hasegawa is a major 'One to Watch' for the next batch of Japanese players who could make the leap to the European leagues. At 26 years of age, Hasegawa is not exactly a wonderkid or rising star, however he is certainly entering the prime years for a player of his ilk - attacking midfielders often do well with age due to the ingenuity that their position requires.

Whilst his team, Alberix Niigata, is struggling this season, Hasegawa himself has racked up an impressive 6 goals and 1 assist in 18 games; numbers that for a relegation-level side is quite strong. His talent surpasses just number though, with the eye test being one in which Hasegawa passes with flying colours. He glides with the ball at his wand-like right foot and is not afraid to drive at defences with confidence - a trait that many would agree is dying in modern football.

Despite just the 1 assist, his passing stats are strong, with 77.5% pass accuracy so far this season, alongside 19 chances created. His dribbling stats have been slightly below par, coming in at 38% success rate, however he makes up for that through his surprisingly strong defensive contribution, racking up 8 interceptions and 44 recoveries; an impressive collection for an attacking based player.

It seems he is in a period of his career that could really go either way; a big move to a mid-table Bundesliga team in which many Japanese players undertake, or a move to a bigger J-League club to boost his stock. Of course, he could always stay at Niigata, but to me, it's clear his talent is deserving of a higher quality squad of players around him.