I last wrote about FC Tokyo midfielder Takefusa Kubo in this column a little over three months ago, reflecting on his impressive performance against reigning champion Kawasaki Frontale on the J. League's opening day.
He's only gotten better, netting four goals and making an additional four assists in 13 appearances for league-leading Tokyo, which sits six points ahead of Kawasaki and Yokohama F. Marinos.
In the past two weeks, Kubo has experienced a series of milestones. First was his selection to the Samurai Blue for this week's friendlies as well as the upcoming Copa America. Then came his appearance on the cover of Sports Graphic Number, along with the understated headline "Legend of the Prodigy."