Matsuda - European experience (Allsport).
NAOKI MATSUDA
Position: Defender
Born: 14.03.77
Club: Yokohama Marinos
Naoki Matsuda impressed at last year's Confederations Cup which is seen as a warm-up for the 2002 finals.
His performances at the back for Japan earned him a place in the squad of the tournament as selected by FIFA representatives at the end of the event.
Still plays his club football with Yokohama Marinos after Dutch club Feyenoord failed to complete a deal which would have since Matsuda link up with international team-mate Shinji Ono in Holland. Has previous experience in Europe with Italian club Atalanta.
Made two errors which led to goals when Japan played Nigeria in Southampton earlier this year, but he should really be remembered for more impressive performances.
With a tenacious style, Matsuda remains very much a part of Philippe Troussier's squad.
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