World Cup Disaster Looms! Japan Star Injured, Could Miss Tournament

The Brighton midfielder was forced off in Saturday's 36th-round Premier League clash against Wolverhampton (2-0). He limped off the pitch in the 58th minute and, according to British media, left the stadium on crutches.

"We have to await the results of medical examinations to determine the extent of the injury and indicate the length of his forced absence. It didn't look good; most likely, it's a hamstring injury in his left leg. However, I'm trying to think positively and believe it won't be too serious," Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler stated after the match.