Western United FC have been given a boost in their push for the Hyundai A-League finals with the signing of Japanese defender Tomoki Imai.
The right-sided defender has joined the Hyundai A-League’s newest club on a deal until the end of the 2019/20 Season.
“I’m very happy to have joined this ambitious club,” Imai told United’s official website.
“I would like to thank head coach Mark Rudan for giving me the chance to start my career in Australia.
“I’m here to work very hard and help the club.”
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The 29-year-old comes to United after playing last season in the J-League with Matsumoto Yamaga.
He appeared 18 times in the Japanese top flight in 2019, while he also has experience playing in the AFC Champions League.
Imai also had a stint at Kashiwa Reysol and Omiya Ardija, where he played alongside former Socceroos captain Lucas Neill.
“Tomoki has fitted in well to how we want to play and our values as a group,” United boss Mark Rudan said.
“We look forward to seeing his contribution during the remainder of the season.”
Imai could be in line to make his club debut in Sunday’s home clash with Brisbane Roar at Mars Stadium in Ballarat.
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Sunday, 16 February 2020
Kick-off: 4pm AEDT
Venue: Mars Stadium
Broadcast: FOX Sports 505
Stream: MyFootball Live App, Kayo Sports
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