Frontale's Nakamura pulls out of Japan squad due to thigh injury

Kawasaki Frontale midfielder Kengo Nakamura has withdrawn from Japan's squad for the upcoming games against South Africa and Hong Kong after hurting his right thigh in Sunday's 3-2 win over JEF United Chiba in the J-League.

"The thigh has been sore for a little while and the same area now hurts even more. There is no way I can go on national duty," said Nakamura, who will need two weeks to make a full recovery.

Kashima Antlers forward Shinzo Koroki has been added to the squad as cover for Nakamura.

Meanwhile, Japan coach Takeshi Okada revealed Catania striker Takayuki Morimoto is looking doubtful for the trip.

"I have been told he has an Achilles tendon problem and there is a strong possibility that he will miss out," said Okada.

The national team departs for South Africa on Monday to play next year's World Cup hosts on Nov. 14. Okada's men then face Hong Kong away in an Asian Cup qualifier four days later.