The legendary footballer - who will celebrate his 59th birthday in February - is linking up with Japanese third division side Fukushima United until June.

The loan move means Miura may play in the J.League - the country's top three division - for the first time since 2020.

He said in a statement: "My passion for football hasn't changed, no matter how old I get.

"I'm very grateful to be given this opportunity. I promise I will play with everything I have to make a contribution.

"Let's make history together".

Miura - whose nickname in Japan is King Kazu - is officially signed to J2 League side Yokohama FC, where he has been since 2005.

He's not played a single minute for the club since 2020, and his latest move will be his fourth loan move since 2022.

Last season, the former Japan international striker played 69 minutes across seven games on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka, and failed to score.

He started his career in 1986 with Brazilian team Santos, going onto play for clubs across Italy, Croatia and Australia, as well as his native Japan.

He scored 55 goals in 89 games for his country, putting him second on the all-time list behind the late Kunishige Kamamoto with 75 goals in 76 matches.

Miura called time on his international career in 2000, which came two years after he was snubbed for Japan's first World Cup finals appearance.