Albirex Niigata on Saturday announced the arrival of defender Michihiro Yasuda on a full transfer from South Korea’s Busan IPark.

The 30-year-old joined the K League Challenge side last season, scoring one goal in 21 appearances. He is most well-known in the J.League for his time at Gamba Osaka as well as his three seasons with Vitesse in the Eredivisie.

“I’ve played many matches at Denka Swan Stadium and I’ve always remembered the friendliness of the fans and how delicious the food is,” Yasuda said. 

“Together with the people of Niigata I will give 100 percent to help us achieve promotion.”

Yasuda, the MVP and New Hero Award winner of the 2007 J.League Cup, earned seven caps for Japan and represented the Samurai Blue at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.