It’s been a difficult season for Yokohama FC, who started the season in the relegation zone and haven’t been able to pull themselves out of it since. But while they are still bottom of the table, they are only six points from safety thanks to a late-season surge that has seen them lose only once in their last four contests.

At the heart of Yokohama’s turnaround has been Tatsuki Seko. The midfielder has been terrific, contributing three assists in a massive win over relegation rival Tokushima Vortis a couple weeks ago and scoring in a huge win over Kashima Antlers.

The 23-year-old has grown into his position in the center of the pitch, making an impact with his tackling and possession from the beginning, and now also adding quality in the final third. It’s been a year of growth and as he’s improved, so has Yokohama FC.

Seko’s increasing presence on the pitch isn’t just limited to his playing ability. He’s also been handed the captaincy, making him the outright leader of the Fulie.

There are just four matches left in the season and Yokohama FC have some work to do, but they are in the right form to be able to pull themselves out of the drop zone. This weekend, they travel to Avispa Fukuoka, but they do so with plenty of confidence thanks to their terrific run of form.

If Yokohama can add another win this weekend and move ever closer to safety, their confidence will only to continue to grow. And how can any team not be confident with someone like Seko leading the way on the pitch and in the dressing room?