Thespa Kusatsu Gunma midfielder Yuki Matsushita was named the latest MEIJI YASUDA J2 League Monthly MVP after contributing to his team’s undefeated month of August.

The captain has led his squad on both sides of the ball since returning to Gunma last season.

His stunning displays, such as his long-range goal against Kamatamare Sanuki, helped to lift the side from 20th to 15th place by the end of the month.

“I’m shocked as I never thought I would win an award like this,” Matsushita said. 

“I’d like to thank my team-mates for their encouragement, my manager and coaches for their guidance and supporters for always being there for the club.

“We’re still in a difficult situation, and I hope I can keep working hard to improve the team as well as my own abilities.”