新加入選手インタビュー<br />
DAY3 塚川孝輝

INTERVIEW2022.7.27

New Player Interview
DAY3 Koki TSUKAGAWA

Q: What is the reason for your transfer?
I felt a lot of charm in Tokyo. I thought I could continue to grow here, so I decided to come here as a challenge.

Q: What was your impression of Tokyo from the outside?
A, We played a match in the opening game with a very strong counter, but we can also work hard on defense and I think it's a team with very high individual abilities.

I think the growth in Kawasaki was very significant.
It was a year and a half, but I was able to grow a lot and it wasn't as intense as a year and a half. It was a life-changing time that was deeper than what I learned in my soccer life, not exaggerating.

Q, Did you also feel more motivated to apply what you learned in the game precisely because you had so much to learn?
A, I had a strong sense of pride in my own growth, so I was simmering for a long time without being able to seize the opportunity. In the midst of that, I received a wonderful opportunity from Tokyo, so I strongly felt the desire to challenge and decided to transfer.

Q, where do you want to compete as a player who can handle various positions?
I want to compete as an anchor or inside half.

Q, In the midst of the position battle, there are players like Aoki and Higashi who play as anchors, what are the points where you can appeal more to them?
A, it is important to not lose in the ball and to take control of the midfield as the center, and to use your size and strength to your advantage. However, I have not been able to score goals or produce visible results in games, so I want to be able to do so in Tokyo.

Q, what would you like to be called by the fans and supporters?
A, please with "kouki".

Q, Did you choose number 35 for any particular reason?
A, I have a family LINE group and when I asked there what number would be good for my jersey, my sister said "35" because it means "the best (saikou)". So I decided on that number.

Q, Do you say that moving the ball is your strength, and that you have confidence in ball control?
A, Earlier, I said that this past year and a half has been more intense than most of my football career, and I really have touched the ball and worked hard. There are still areas that can be improved, but I have confidence.

Q, Were there any parts that you felt you needed to learn after joining Tokyo's practice?
A, Regarding the position, all teams are particular about it, so the coach said that it is very important to see where to stand against the opponent, so we have been constantly thinking about it and playing since today's practice. I think there are also parts that the coach is looking for, so I hope to listen carefully and coordinate well.

Q, How is the atmosphere in Tokyo?
A, it's very easy to blend in because it's very at home. Even for one practice today, if there is a good play for the whole team, everyone will be excited and I thought it was really good because there is a sense of unity in the team.

Q, please tell us your enthusiasm for Tokyo again.
I decided to come to Tokyo because I want to combine my strengths and what I have been able to grow so far, and challenge myself there.