Huddersfield Town signing Yuta Nakayama’s first words as Japan international excited for 'big challenge'

Yuta Nakayama has admitted his excitement at the ‘big challenge’ of the Championship after signing for Huddersfield Town. The 25-year-old was announced as Town’s second arrival of the day yesterday - following Jack Rudoni - after signing on a free transfer from Dutch side PEC Zwolle.

The left sided defender spent three and a half seasons at the Dutch side, racking up five goals and three assists in 78 Eredivisie games. He has 16 caps for Japan and is expected to represent them at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar later this year.

And the new arrival admitted his excitement at the new challenge and the rigours of the Championship, adding that he will bring quality in building from the back.

“I'm really happy to sign and I'm really excited.” He told the HTAFC YouTube channel. “This is a big challenge for me. When I went to the Netherlands that was also a big step for me and I wanted to prove myself. Now this is the new challenge, new chapter so I want to improve myself and help the team.

“It's a big challenge because the league is physical, so I need to be stronger. I have to get better every single game. My strength is to build up from the bottom of the team, I can show that every game.

“I'm ready to play and I'm really excited to play. I can't wait to play and see the fans.”

Nakayama’s announcement came alongside the reveal of the club’s new third kit on a busy day in West Yorkshire. Shortly before, the club announced the signing of AFC Wimbledon midfielder Rudoni for an undisclosed fee, with five senior players now through the doors for head coach Danny Schofield.