IWATA, Shizuoka Pref. (Kyodo) Aging former national team striker Masashi Nakayama says he has lost none of his passion and is determined to continue his playing career after being deemed surplus to requirements at J. League first-division club Jubilo Iwata.
"As a player I still have strong passion and I still want to improve as a player. I would regret it if I quit the game now," the 42-year-old Nakayama told a press conference Thursday.
Nakayama was told earlier this week that his services would not be required next season but was offered an adviser's role at Iwata, where he has spent his entire professional career.