Keisuke Honda appeared for the last time in Melbourne Victory’s colours in their 1 – 3 defeat to Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the Asian Champions League. In a television interview after the match, he spoke about his appreciation for the A-League and his immediate future.

The former Japan international said, “I like the atmosphere of Australian soccer. It’s a splendid country and its people conduct themselves wonderfully. I love this country and respect its people. I will miss this place when I leave here. I hope the A-League will grow into a magnificent league like the European ones.”

Honda joined Melbourne Victory in August last year and started the season strongly with five goals in eight matches. But injuries to his back and right foot put him out of action for over two months, and upon his return, he did not perform as well and ended the season with a total of seven goals and six assists.

“I don’t believe my injury (in the second half of the season) was the reason why I didn’t play well. After my injury healed, I analysed that opposing teams were steadily starting to contain me, and that meant I wasn’t able to impact games like I could in the first half.”

In the press conference on 21 May, Honda reiterated his goal to participate in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

“I want to continue in my current role so I can play in the Tokyo Olympics. But I’m not sure where I’m headed next. For now, I want to rest a bit after this season. Then I will do my best for my 2020 target.”

To achieve that goal, the 32 year-old hopes to play high level football in a European league.

Outgoing Melboune Victory manager Kevin Muscat said, “We wish him all the best in his new adventure. He said he wants to go somewhere where he can continue to play at a high level, so he can realise his ambition of playing in the Olympics.”

Lastly, Honda left a message for Melbourne Victory.

“I did my best as much as I could. The fans, my teammates and manager have my utmost respect. And I especially would like to thank the supporters for the cheers at all times. I think I’ll miss every one of them very soon.”

For Japanese football news, follow CoolJapan Soccer.

Source: Yahoo

Images: gettyimages