Q, There is my friend Nagai player in this section's opponent Nagoya.
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 Nagoya game, I couldn't play against Kenji (Coach Masaru HASEGAWA) because I was not in the lineup, so this time I want to show my energetic self.
Q, it will be in the form of receiving Nagai's high press.
A, I don't want to receive that (laughs). It's scary when they come at about 60%. That press on the anchor is scary. However, I think that Kenta-san's (Coach HASEGAWA) soccer is his selling point, so if we can get around that, I think there will be chances for us too, and I think it will be that kind of game.
Q, there is still a possibility of ACL.
A, As an individual, I don't really care about rankings. This season, I couldn't play in many games at the start, and at that time I felt the joy of being able to play and the value of being a player. Every game, there is also a sense of crisis that if I don't play well, I won't be able to play in the game. In this round, I will be playing for a team led by coach Masaru HASEGAWA, who I have been playing with until last season, and with player Hayato HASEGAWA, so I am motivated, but first I want to play well and help the team win.
Q, how do you stop player Nagai?
A, if you are run behind the defense, you won't be able to catch up. However, Nagai is a smart player who tends to focus on speed, but he is good at positioning 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 there is quite important. It is best if we can move the ball and make the defense run, and when we have the ball, we should be able to use our power. I know his strengths from playing together, and he always helped us out. I am looking forward to facing him in a match.
Q, do you have any special feelings because you were close with player Nagai?
A, I really wanted to play together and he was a player I wanted to stay in Tokyo with. He was a valuable player for me, both on and off the pitch.It's a shame that he transferred, but it's part of the professional world and I think it's natural.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 (Masaru HASEGAWA). I have nothing but gratitude. In the first half, I couldn't play in front of Coach Kenta (Masaru HASEGAWA), 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, Has the time you spent playing with Kenta (Coach Hasegawa) as an anchor on defense been beneficial?
A, there is no doubt about it. The defensive and fighting aspects, as well as the mentality, have been truly trained. I think that's why I'm living as an anchor now. I think it was Kenta (Coach HASEGAWA) who extended my playing career. I'm really happy to be able to play with such a coach.
Q, What are your thoughts now after trying and experimenting with a new position this season?
A, it's very fulfilling. While taking on new challenges, there are also many things to think about, which is very refreshing and enjoyable.