Stuttgart sign Japanese starlet

Stuttgart have announced the signing of striker Shinji Okazaki on a free transfer from Shimizu Pulse.

The Japan international has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal and will join his new teammates on Friday.

The 24-year-old, who bagged 21 goals in 38 appearances for Japan, believes he has what it takes to succeed in  Bundesliga.

“I hope that I can contribute a lot to this team. I feel that my strengths are my ability to run, and in front of goal,” Okazaki told club’s official website.

“In recent months I’ve felt a lot of stress, but another strength of mine is that I’m very resilient. I just need a few days to turn off, and then I’ll be back in great condition.

“I know that the Bundesliga is a very physical, very high-level league. I’m looking forward to this challenge.”