Shin Yamada’s only focus amid £1.5m transfer to Celtic

However, he criticised his own form this season, admitting he was unhappy with how he has played back home for Kawasaki Frontale.

Celtic appear poised to add Yamada to their growing list of Japanese recruits, as the 25-year-old Kawasaki forward prepares to head to Glasgow following Japan’s final EAFF E-1 Championship match against South Korea next week.

Yamada earned his first cap for Japan as a substitute in their 6-1 victory over Hong Kong, played in front of only 687 spectators in Yongin, South Korea.

Although proud to make his debut in a Japan squad composed solely of J-League players, he acknowledged frustration over scoring just twice in 21 appearances this season, a dramatic drop from his 19 goals last year.

Speaking via The National, Yamada said: “I went into the game with the feeling that this was my chance to impress and although we won, I thought I could have done more.”

“I think that going forward, when we compete in the World Cup, it will be against far more difficult opponents, so I need to keep that in mind as I work on my national team progress.”

“I thought I might have been able to score a goal, but I think I learned a lot from this. On a personal note, I have to admit I have had a disappointing season. I set high standards for myself and I don’t think I met them if I am being honest.”

“Yes, I enjoyed a very good season previously and scored a lot of goals, but for whatever reason it didn’t happen again this season. I think the team played in a different style and that made a difference, but I am fully aware I have to raise my standards.”

Conor Spence