The English Premier League attracts a vast array of diverse and special footballing talents from across the globe. While most come from established European, South American and African footballing centres, Asian players, including those from Japan, have also left their mark on the league.

In this article, we’ll count down five such Japanese footballers, each of whom has left an impression on the English Premier League.

5. Hidetoshi Nakata (Bolton Wanderers, 2005-2006)

Nakata was a legend in Italy, making 182 Serie A appearances and scoring 24 goals for five different Italian clubs. In the Japanese midfielder’s final season before retirement, he graced the Premier League.

Hidetoshi Nakata joined Bolton Wanderers on loan, displaying his elegance on the ball and leadership qualities for 21 games in Bolton colours. His technical excellence helped the club to an eighth-position finish under Sam Allardyce. Nakata accumulated 77 caps for Japan over his distinguished

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