Bochum confirm capture of "highly creative" Japanese international Miyoshi

At the conclusion of a summer during which they parted company with popular Japanese attacking winger Takuma "Jaguar" Asano, VfL Bochum have at least procured a replacement with some Samurai Blue caps to his name. Twenty-seven-year-old winger Koji Miyoshi joined the Revierklub Friday evening on transfer deadline day. Bochum purchased the five-times-capped international from relegated EFL Championship side Birmingham City. 

A transfer fee was due for Miyoshi, but both sides agreed not to divulge the details. It can be assumed that Bochum acquired him relatively cheaply, as the Blues were eager to offload him on an expiring contract. Miyoshi - who also enjoyed success with Antwerp in Belgium - netted six goals and registered six assists in 43 English second division appearances last season.

“Koji Miyoshi is a very creative midfielder who knows how to set up his teammates effectively,” VfL sporting director Marc Lettau noted in a statement on the club's website, “He has a large technical repertoire, is agile, and also finds playful solutions in tight spaces. He not only acts as a source of ideas, but also looks to score himself.”

“I'm delighted that the move to VfL Bochum has worked out,” Myoshi himself added, “The Bundesliga is one of the best and strongest leagues in the world. I want to prove myself here and help the team with my skills.”