Sunshine Coast FC is pleased to announce the signing of new player Chiharu Kosuge from Kanagawa, Japan.
The 24-year-old defender arrived in Australia in January and has been training and playing with the First Team squad during pre-season. The 24-year-old featuring strongly in the Fire’s game against Maroochydore and scored a goal in the Fire’s 4-1 win over Coolum.
Managing Director Noel Woodall watched Kosuge play while visiting Japan last November, on recommendation from the Fire’s Japanese contacts and 2013 Fire player Takanori Sato.
“I saw him in Japan on a trial. He looked very comfortable on the ball and had outstanding ability in the air,” Mr Woodall said.
Mr Woodall said he and Technical Director Kevin A’herne Evans had both been impressed with Kosuge in preseason.
“He has performed very well both in training and in trial games. He has been outstanding as centre back but he can also play in the full back position,” Mr Woodall said.
Kosuge previously played as a central defender for four years with top University team Komazawa in the Kanto League. He said he was excited for the opportunity to play in Australia.
“I have enjoyed playing with the Fire in pre-season and adapting to the Australian style of football. It is a bit different; tighter defensively,” Kosuge said.
The Fire will also be attracting a new legion of fans in Japan, as Kosuge’s friends and family watch his progress with the Club.
“My friends who are involved in football back home have been following the Fire online and will be supporting our team throughout the season,” he said.
The Fire will be announcing more signings in the coming weeks, with a number of players currently on trial for First Team positions.
