Yoshida named in Japan's World Cup squad

As anticipated, the experienced Yoshida has been named in Akira Nishino’s 23-man group for the tournament.

The centre-back won his 81st cap in Nishino’s first game in charge, but could not help Samurai Blue to avoid a 2-0 friendly defeat to Ghana in Tokyo.

They will now continue their preparations with friendlies against Switzerland and Paraguay, before their opening game in Group H against Colombia on Tuesday 19th June in Saransk.