Melbourne: Japanese star Keisuke Honda said he planned to retire after the World Cup but decided to keep playing after being inspired by Melbourne Victory coach Kevin Muscat.
The former AC Milan striker, one of the highest profile names in Asian football, has signed for the reigning A-League champions for the 2018/19 season.
“I was thinking to quit my career after the World Cup but lucky this club made me a great offer that changed my mind,” he said at his welcome news conference, which was packed with Japanese media.
“I changed my mind after I spoke to Kevin directly.
“He said to me he really wants to succeed as a club… he’s an ambitious person and I’m an ambitious person as well, so I was inspired by him. That was a big meeting for me.
“I’m excited. I’m so glad I can try a new challenge in my career.”
The talismanic 32-year-old, who retired from international football after Japan’s heartbreaking World Cup in Russia.
