<strong>Together, let's make history'</strong> - Miura, fifty-eight, joins new football side.

The legendary Japanese striker, set to turn 59 next month and is the world's oldest professional footballer, has agreed to a loan deal until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

This move means Miura might feature in the Japanese professional league - the top three divisions of Japanese football - for the initial occasion in half a decade.

The former Japan striker, who started his career with the Brazilian club Santos in 1986, did not find the net in 69 minutes across seven outings last season while on loan at JFL side Atletico Suzuka.

"My passion for football remains undimmed, regardless of my age," he said as he prepares for a 41st season as a professional footballer.

"I'm very grateful to be given this opportunity. I vow I will play with everything I have to make a contribution. Let's make history together!"

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

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

He netted 55 goals in 89 games in an career for the national team that concluded in 2000, shortly following his notable omission from the squad for Japan's maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

Miura, who has expressed a desire for continuing his career into his seventh decade, said he was ready to "take on a new challenge" after being demoted last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima finished 10th in the 20-team third division last season.