Hajime Hosogai's work-rate and resilience have seen him emerge as a prominent defensive midfielder
Hajime Hosogai's work-rate and resilience have seen him emerge as a prominent defensive midfielder

Ten things about...Hajime Hosogai

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Munich - The influx of Japanese footballers has not gone unnoticed in the Bundesliga, but while technically-gifted talents such as Hiroshi Kiyotake and Shinji Okazaki have gleaned the limelight, Hertha Berlin's Hajime Hosogai is content flying under the radar.

The holding midfield specialist, who is proud to have made a name for himself as a no-nonsense stopper, is far from surprised by Germany's growing Japanese influence. "It's incredible how many of my compatriots are playing [in the Bundesliga]," said Hosogai recently. "I think Japanese players have the attributes to establish themselves in Europe." bundesliga.com takes a closer look at Hertha's Samurai in shining armour...

Compiled by James Thorogood