Toda is the sort of player that has flourished under the tutelage of Philippe Troussier.

While not an out and out star in his own right, he has followed the hardworking ethic which goes hand in hand with Troussier and the Japanese squad.

He leaves the likes of Nakata and Morishima to get on with the more creative work as the link-up man between defence and midfield.

More liable to hang back, he is happiest in central midfield, where Troussier has tended to pick him.