FC Gifu on Wednesday announced the signing of striker Ryan De Vries from Auckland City FC.

Born in South Africa, the one-time All Whites selection was a part of Auckland City’s memorable third-place finish at the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup. 

With his speed and power, he has scored 10 goals from six appearances in this season’s New Zealand Football Championship.

“I want to thank manager Takashi Oki and the rest of the club for giving me the chance to play here and giving my family the opportunity to experience life in Japan,” De Vries said. 

“As a member of this club, I want to form close bonds with my team-mates, fans and staff, and give my best for the team.”