'Japanese Messi' Kubo named in Copa America squad

Teenage sensation Takefusa Kubo won his first senior Japan call-up Friday when he was named in coach Hajime Moriyasu's squad for next month's Copa America in Brazil.

The FC Tokyo midfielder, who was invited to Barcelona's youth academy as a pint-sized nine-year-old where he earned the nickname the "Japanese Messi", is one of no fewer than 17 uncapped players as Japan look to build for next year's Tokyo Olympics.

Kubo, 17, will also be available for Japan's home warm-up games against Trinidad and Tobago on June 5 and El Salvador on June 9, Japanese officials said.

"Teams like the hosts Brazil will definitely be serious about winning," Kubo told local media.

"But even though we are playing as guests we will have to match the desire of our opponents when we get on the pitch."
"It is important for them to get exposure of the game at this level."