BRIGHTON star Kaoru Mitoma is a major World Cup doubt after suffering a hamstring blow.
The international, 28, picked up the issue during his side’s last Saturday.
Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma is a World Cup doubt after picking up a hamstring blow Credit: Getty
Japan will be sweating on Mitoma ahead of their first World Cup game against Holland Credit: Getty
was subbed off for Joel Veltman in the 57th minute and will miss the Seagulls’ last two matches of the season.
It’s a huge blow for , who are still chasing a place in Europe this season under manager .
The German boss admitted it was “sad” news and said he wasn’t sure if Mitoma would feature at the World Cup.
Japan’s first group stage game against the Netherland takes place on June 14.
Hurzeler said: “He will miss the next two games.
“Regarding the World Cup, I’m not sure yet. We’ll be in touch with the Japan federation.
Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler said he wasn’t sure if Mitoma would make the World Cup Credit: Getty
“It is a big blow. We have a big squad and we have showed this season we can replace important players. We see it as a chance to stick together.
“We really have to be patient with this injury, we cannot give a clear schedule.
“He will miss our two games. That is sad for Kaoru. He was in good form and had a big impact on our performances.”
Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu said on Sunday: “I hope it’s a minor injury. I was told by staff, ‘It doesn’t seem minor.'”
Mitoma has started 19 games in the Premier League for Brighton this season.
It hasn’t been his strongest season after scoring three goals and assisting once so far.
However, his campaign has been disrupted by other injuries after a foot problem in October ruled him out for two months.
He also suffered a minor ankle injury in March and he will be bitterly disappointed to pick up another blow.
Mitoma has picked up 31 caps for Japan so far.
He has scored nine times during that period and was expected to be a key player for his national team.
Japan will also face off against at the World Cup on June 21 bfeore facing on June 26.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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