Aston Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has returned to Japan’s matchday squad after a rib problem disrupted the start of his international break.
The Japan Football Association’s official team sheet named Suzuki among the substitutes against Venezuela on Monday, with Leo Brian Kokubo selected to start in Hiroshima.
His inclusion is an encouraging development for Villa after the goalkeeper missed Japan’s previous match against Uruguay.
Suzuki had initially followed an individual training programme, with our earlier report on his injury concern detailing the rib issue.
Returning to a matchday squad represents another step forward, although it does not establish that he is ready to complete 90 minutes.
Zion Suzuki injury concern eases
Villa have reason to monitor their goalkeeper closely after his important contribution to the 3-2 victory at Tottenham before the break.
His return to Japan’s bench gives Unai Emery a more encouraging selection update as preparations continue for the resumption of club football.
Japan still have further matches during this international window. Their official schedule includes Ecuador on 1 October, followed by Panama or New Zealand on 5 October.
Those fixtures provide further opportunities for Suzuki to regain playing time before returning to Villa.
For now, the confirmed development is his availability for Japan’s matchday squad. A starting return would provide the next indication of his progress.