Ichikawa celebrated his 22nd birthday just days before being selected for Philippe Troussier's squad.

Despite his age, he is an international veteran having made his international debut five years ago as a spritely 17-year-old.

He just missed out on the 1998 World Cup squad and subsequently remained out of favour in qualifying this time around.

Remains an impressive attacking option in midfield and is on the cusp of the starting line-up four years on.