Toda sets his sights on success

Toda: Important role for Japan at World Cup

Japan midfielder Kazuyuki Toda has outlined his intention to succeed in the Premiership after joining Spurs on a one-year loan deal.

The Shimizu S-Pulse player, who played a key part in the success of the Japanese side at the World Cup, has agreed terms and has been granted a work permit.

The 25-year-old is fully aware of the failure of previous Japan internationals to establish themselves in the top flight but is confident he can buck the trend.

My dream has always been to play in the Premiership and I am at a great club with a great history

Kazuyuki Toda

"I am aware that Japanese players have not been too successful in England in the past and I want to change that image," said Toda.

"My dream has always been to play in the Premiership and I am at a great club with a great history, so I am very happy to be here."

Toda snubs Sunderland for Spurs

He will become the second Japanese player to appear in the Premiership, after Fulham's Junichi Inamoto.

And Spurs boss Glenn Hoddle has revealed that his team spent over a year tracking the player, who was once managed by Steve Perryman.

"This signing goes back further than anyone can imagine because we spoke with Steve about him more than a year ago," said Hoddle.

"Steve managed him for five years and said he believed he had the true pedigree to play in the Premiership.

"He has two very good feet which is a major asset and I believe he has the potential to improve.

"He likes a challenge and is a fantastic character so I am sure this will be a good signing.

"He has had one training session with us and I am confident he will settle quickly and blossom and I believe he is well equipped to play in English football.

"He is a defensive player but someone who can keep the ball well and he is at a good age to learn and improve."

Toda had spent two weeks on trial at Premiership rivals Sunderland before eventually signing for Spurs in a £200,000 deal.

Have your say on the 606 Spurs page