travel up: Soccer-Japan gets Kagawa fever for Sapporo friendly

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

TOKYO, Aug 14 (Reuters) - Japan forward Shinji Kagawa

believes his pre-season move to Manchester United will make him

a better player as he was mobbed on arrival for Wednesday's

friendly against Venezuela.

'Kagawa fever' hit the northern city of Sapporo as the

23-year-old swept through the airport lobby, fans and television

cameras jostling to get near the Japan playmaker.

Asian champions Japan face Venezuela as part of their

preparations for the Sept. 11 World Cup qualifier against Iraq

with tickets for the game at Sapporo Dome already sold out.

Kagawa's every move has been documented by the Japanese

media since his 17 million euro ($21.01 million) transfer from

Borussia Dortmund to United in June.

"The level is very high (at United)," Kagawa, who has

impressed during the side's pre-season games, told Tuesday's

Nikkan Sports newspaper.

"You're playing everyday in an environment which spurs you

on," said Kagawa, who has quickly formed a good understanding

with England striker Wayne Rooney.

"I'm enjoying life off the pitch too," he added. "Physically

I have no problems and I'm looking forward to putting in a good

performance for Japan."

Japan overpowered Oman 3-0 and Jordan 6-0 at home before

being held 1-1 in Australia in June in their first three games

in the final round of Asian 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

(Reporting by Alastair Himmer; Editing by John O'Brien)

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