Hosogai heading to Hertha
Leverkusen - Newly-crowned Bundesliga 2 champions Hertha BSC Berlin have announced the signing of Bayer 04 Leverkusen utility man for the start of the coming season.
First impressions
The 26-year-old Japanese international has put pen to paper on a four-year deal that will see him join the capital city side until the summer of 2017, and link up with former coach Jos Luhukay, who recently extended his contract with the club.
Hosogai arrived in the Bundesliga in January 2011 when he joined die Werkself from J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds, but after six months joined FC Augsburg on loan for the 2011/12 season, then coached by Luhukay.
It was for die Függerstädter that he really made his mark in the German top flight, as he missed just three games of the domestic campaign, helping the club to avoid relegation in its first ever season in the Bundesliga.
Pastures new
This season he benefited from an injury to left back Michel Kadlec to enjoy an extended run in the first team before the winter break, but has since seen his playing time limited by Kadlec's return and the arrival of Sebastian Boenisch. In total he has made 14 appearances thus far this season.
Hosogai will become only the second Japanese player to represent the club after Yasuhiko Okudera, who played for the 'Old Lady' in the 1980/81 season.
