Japans King Kazu Miura set to play on into his 50s

Japanese striker Kazuyoshi Miura will extend one of soccer’s longest professional careers by 12 months after the 49-year-old agreed a new deal with second division Yokohama FC on Wednesday.

Miura, who scored 55 goals in 89 appearances for Japan prior to his international retirement in 2000, is set for his 32nd season as a professional.

“I hope to keep fighting with all my might together with people involved with the club, my team mates and supporters who have always given me support,” said Miura, who turns 50 on February 26.

Miura, who scored twice in 20 league appearance last year, has played for several clubs in Japan and also enjoyed a spell with Brazil’s Santos.