やらないよりはやってみよう。

Honda of Kashima Antlers decided to quit.

Though he is not a player of Urawa, he is one of the players who gave me vivid impression. He is not a good dribbler, but his defensive effort contributed a lot to Japan national team of Kamo's era and of course to Kashima's victorious history. When ball players like Maezono in international matches were big names, he was not in spotlight, but his defensive attitude enabled them shine. In J league, when Brazilians in local matches show skills in front and fullbacks duo Soma and Narahashi deeply run flanks, Honda was meters away from the show, preparing next enemy strike.

As Yamaguchi, then Yokohama Flugels player, earned defensive midfield position in national team, he faded away from international career. I don't know much about his recent form and Kashima has been a bit dull so far in title battle since it was beaten by Urawa in Nabisco final. I guess he has been frustrated at being short of titles for years as he knows too much about winning history of Kashima and it is a bit sad that such a self-sacrificing player ends his career when Osim's philosophy of covering and moving is highly praised.

Anyway, I heard he would stay in Kashima as a staff and I hope his experience boost up the younger Antlers mentality and put the team in title race again.

Thank you for your devotion to local league and national team, Honda!