Cerezo Osaka midfielder Kai Hirano has joined Thailand’s Army United on a full transfer after having spent the last two seasons there on loan.

The 29-year-old, who joined Cerezo from Buriram United midway through the 2014 season, will now return to South-East Asia.

“I will never forget the matches I played for Cerezo Osaka even if it was only for half a season,” Hirano said. 

“I’m glad I was able to join fans supporting the club in the J1 Promotion Playoff Final and see that packed stadium. 

“Even though I am leaving the team, I hope the club’s sakura (cherry blossoms) will continue to bloom.”