Q: This week's opponent, Nagoya, has my close friend Ryo Nagai as a player.
A, when was the last time we played against each other? I'm really looking forward to it because it's been a while. In the first half of the season, I couldn't play against Kenta (Coach Hasegawa) as I was not in the lineup, so this time I want to show my energetic self.
Q, it will be in a form to receive Ryo Nagai's high press.
A, I don't want to receive that (laughs). It would be nice if it comes at around 60%. I'm scared of that press as an anchor. However, I think Kenta-san's (Coach Hasegawa) soccer is his selling point, so if we can get through that, I think we will have a chance as well, and I expect the game to be like that.
Q, there is still a possibility of ACL.
A, as an individual, I don't really care about the ranking. This season, I couldn't play in many games at the start, so I felt the value of being able to play and the joy of playing again. There is also a sense of crisis that if I don't play well in every game, I won't be able to play. In this match, I will be playing for a team led by Kenta-san (Coach HASEGAWA), who I have been playing with until last season, and with Nagai as well, so I am motivated. But first, I want to play well and help the team win.
Q, how do you stop player Ryo NAGAI?
A, if someone runs behind the defense, you won't be able to catch up. However, player Jeon JIWAN tends to focus on speed, but he is a smart player who is good at positioning himself and being in a position where he cannot be caught. The players behind him need to be careful, and if he makes a good run from a good position, it will be difficult to catch up. I think risk management in that area is quite important. I think it is ideal for us to move the ball and make the defense run, so that they lose their power when they have the ball. I know his strengths because I played with him, and he always made helpful plays. I'm looking forward to the match against him.
Q: Do you have any special feelings because you were close with player Ryo Nagai?
A, I really wanted to play together for a long time and he was a player I wanted to be in Tokyo. That's because he was a valuable player for me, both on and off the pitch.It's unfortunate that he transferred, but it's a professional world and I think it's a natural thing to happen.I accept that and have been together for 5 years, so I would be happy if we could have a good game and exchange jerseys at the end.
Q, What do you think about coach Kenta HASEGAWA?
A, I have definitely grown under Coach Kenta HASEGAWA. I have nothing but gratitude. I couldn't play in front of Coach Kenta HASEGAWA in the first half, so I want to have a serious match and play in a way that makes him think, "I don't want to play against Keigo."
Q: Does the time spent playing with Kenta Hasegawa (Coach Hasegawa) as an anchor in defense have an impact?
A, there is no doubt about it. The defensive aspect and the fighting aspect, the mentality has really been trained. I think that's what I'm living as an anchor position now. I think Kenta-san (Coach HASEGAWA) is the one who has extended my playing career. I'm really happy to be able to play against such a coach.
Q: This season, you have tried new positions and made trial and error. What are your thoughts now?
A, it is very fulfilling. While taking on new challenges, there are also many things to think about, and that is very refreshing and enjoyable.
