National team manager Vahid Halilhodzic has warned star player Keisuke Honda that he is not guaranteed of a starting place when Japan takes on Saudi Arabia in a crucial World Cup qualifier next Tuesday.

Honda started Japan's 4-0 friendly win over Oman at Kashima Stadium on Friday night but lasted only 61 minutes before making way for Takuma Asano, as a lack of playing time for club side AC Milan caught up with him.

Honda has made only three Serie A appearances for the Italian giants so far this season — racking up just 81 minutes — and Halilhodzic hinted he may drop the Samurai Blue icon for qualifying group leader Saudi Arabia's visit to Saitama Stadium.