KYOTO (Kyodo) Japan striker Teruaki Kurobe has put his international future on the line by opting to stay at relegated Kyoto Purple Sanga next season.
Recently targeted by four-time J. League champions Kashima Antlers, the 25-year-old has decided to remain at Nishikyogoku Stadium, despite the fact that playing in the second division could harm his chances of further national team call-ups from coach Zico.
"On a personal level I want to be picked for Japan but my main priority lies with my club," Kurobe told reporters Saturday.
Kurobe has been capped three times but yet to find the target in a Japan shirt.
Kyoto was relegated from the first division along with Vegalta Sendai this season but Kurobe has vowed to take it back to the top flight at the first attempt.
Nagoya inks Kakuda
NAGOYA (Kyodo) Nagoya Grampus Eight has signed promising young defender Makoto Kakuda from relegated Kyoto Purple Sanga, officials of the J. League first-division side said Saturday.