<strong>We can forge a legacy'</strong> - Kazuyoshi Miura, 58, signs with new football side.

The legendary Japanese striker, who turns 59 in February and is the world's oldest professional footballer, has finalized a temporary transfer until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

This move means Miura could play in the J.League - the top three divisions of Japanese football - for the initial occasion in five years.

The ex-international forward, who began his professional journey with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, failed to score in 69 minutes across seven appearances last season while on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka.

"My love for the game hasn't changed, no matter how old I get," he said as he gears up for a 41st season as a professional footballer.

"I'm very grateful to be given this opportunity. I vow I will play with all my heart to help the team. Together, we can create a legacy!"

Referred to as 'King Kazu' in Japan, this will be Miura's fourth loan since 2022 from J2 League side Yokohama FC.

Miura, who has also featured in Australia, Italy, and Croatia, joined the club in 2005 but has not played a minute for them since 2020.

He scored 55 goals in 89 games in an career for the national team that concluded in 2000, two years after his surprising exclusion from the squad for Japan's maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

The footballer, who has expressed a desire for continuing his career into his seventh decade, said he was ready to "embrace a fresh test" after being demoted last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima ended the season in tenth place in the 20-team third division last season.