Shuto Machino

Japan call-up confirmed

Machino has been called up to Japan's World Cup squad as a replacement for the injured Wataru Endo, according to Gekisaka.

Analysis: Machino joins the group ahead of Japan's World Cup opener against the Netherlands, stepping into a squad that has been forced to reorganize following the loss of their captain. The Borussia Monchengladbach forward brings attacking depth and goal-scoring ability to a Japanese side that will need to find solutions up front throughout the tournament. His call-up gives coach Hajime Moriyasu an additional offensive option as Japan prepare to compete in Group F alongside the Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia.