Mumbai, Sep 9 (IANS): Mumbai FC Tuesday announced the signing of Japanese player Taisuke Matsugae for the 2014-15 I-League season.
Having played for Shillong Lajong last season and for teams in the second division of J-League previously in Japan, the 31-year-old brings with him a lot of experience to the Mumbai FC squad.
Taisuke is the first foreigner signed by Mumbai FC and also fills the club's Asian quota.
Mumbai FC head coach Khalid Jamil said: "Taisuke will bring a lot of creativity to the Mumbai FC attack. He has the ability to unlock any defence and he also has a very good eye for goal. Taisuke will fit into my game plans very well. A player who can play both as a midfielder and as a false nine (forward) is always a valuable asset."
In 2007 Taisuke joined Blaublitz Akita who played in the Japan football league. He stayed at the club from 2007 to 2013 in which he played in 96 league matches and scored 19 goals in his time at the club.
At Shillong Lajong, he played 31 matches scoring four goals.
"I am happy to be at this club. I enjoyed my time playing in the I-League last season and wanted to continue playing in this league. I will give my best at this club. I hope to join my teammates for our pre-season soon," said Taisuke.
The arrival of Taisuke will help Mumbai FC add more goals to their tally as they look to improve their position in the I-League table for the upcoming season.