Former Celtic defender Hayato Inamura says his return to Japanese football was driven by his international ambitions, with the ex-Hoops player determined to earn a place in Japan’s senior squad.
The 24-year-old completed a move to FC Tokyo last week after a disappointing stint in Glasgow, where he managed just a single first-team appearance for the Scottish champions before heading back to the J.League.
Despite his lack of opportunities at Celtic, Inamura insists the experience proved invaluable and believes it has helped him develop both on and off the pitch.
He also revealed fellow Japanese international Daizen Maeda remains a major source of inspiration as he looks to reach the biggest stage.
“It’s absolutely true that one of my reasons for returning to Japan was my ambition of making the full squad,” he said via TCW.
“I watched my very good friend Daizen Maeda make a huge impression at the World Cup and I want to follow him.
“He helped me a lot at Celtic and took good care of me.
“It’s not a restart for me at FC Tokyo, but I want to get back playing.
“I learned a lot at Celtic and grew a lot as a player.
“Watching the World Cup reminded me of the many good players Japan have and I want to be a part of that.
“I really want to be on that stage with them and this is the best way for my career to grow.
“I am aiming high.”
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