Takehiro Tomiyasu
CRY
Center Back
Ball-Playing Center Back
Nov 5, 1998 (27)
Right
6'2"
Calf injury keeps him sidelined
Tomiyasu (calf) will miss Sunday's Premier League clash against Brighton, extending his absence after being unable to regain full fitness ahead of the fixture.
Analysis: Tomiyasu has remained sidelined since suffering a calf injury during the draw against Leeds United, which forced him off at halftime. The Japanese defender subsequently missed the matches against Nottingham Forest and Lyon, and Sunday's omission represents another setback in his recovery. Tomiyasu has started twice this season but has yet to establish a consistent run of appearances due to his fitness concerns. Chris Richards and Jaydee Canvot remain available to cover in central defense, while Tomiyasu's next opportunity to return will depend on his progress in training.
Makes late defensive cameo
Tomiyasu registered one interception in Saturday's 2-0 defeat versus Everton.
Analysis: Tomiyasu came on in the 72nd minute to replace an injured Chadi Riad, registering one interception across his 18 minutes as Crystal Palace closed out Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Everton. The Japanese international's availability now gives manager Pierre Sage an experienced option to fill the left side of the back three during Riad's absence, and with the Moroccan defender potentially sidelined for a significant period, Tomiyasu is expected to step into a starting role immediately heading into the Manchester City fixture.
Nine clearances in loss
Tomiyasu generated nine clearances and two interceptions in Monday's 2-1 defeat to Brazil.
Analysis: Tomiyasu saw time in three of Japan's four matches in the World Cup, but based on his numbers, this was his best statistical performance. The Ajax defender had 14 clearances, two tackles and three interceptions in three starts and 184 minutes of action.
Records four clearances
Tomiyasu recorded one tackle, an intercpetion and four clearances in Saturday's 4-0 win over Tunisia.
Analysis: Tomiyasu was given a starting role Saturday, playing 79 minutes after only a short 15-minute cameo in their opener. He would be decent in his time on the field, as four clearances and a clean sheet were his best moments. He will eye a starting role when facing Sweden, as he was likely to start the opener before being given a bench spot.
Fit to start in back line
Tomiyasu has been named in Japan's World Cup squad and is expected to feature in the back-three as a versatile and experienced option who can operate at center-back or as a wing-back.
Analysis: Tomiyasu joined Ajax on a free transfer this summer after his contract at Arsenal expired, making his debut at the Amsterdam club and bringing elite Premier League experience to a defensive unit that will benefit greatly from his quality and leadership. The defender's combination of technical ability, defensive solidity and versatility makes him one of the most valuable squad members available to manager Moriyasu, capable of filling multiple roles across the defensive unit depending on the tactical requirements of each fixture. Tomiyasu heads into the World Cup in a strong position after securing a move to a Champions League club and will be motivated to deliver his best football for Japan this summer despite logging in only nine games across all competitions this season due to injuries.
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