Kento Hashimoto has already left quite an impression on Rostov fans since signing from FC Tokyo in July, and it appears the feelings are mutual. Japanese fan accounts have sprung up on social media to follow the club's first ever Japanese player, while the club's official channels launched a Tokyo Drift-inspired announcement video.

Hashimoto made his debut for Rostov on 8 August, he played 8 minutes against FC Tambov (1-0). In the stands for the RPL matchday 2 fixture at home to Zenit St. Petersburg there was even a banner written in Hashimoto's native language welcoming him to the club. 

"I was impressed by the fans' banner and applause," the 27-year-old midfielder  told the Rostov media office. "I'm happy to be a part of this family. Thank you very much! I'll do anything for this team!"

Hashimoto also took part in the match against RPL current champions, he made an entrance in the 73rd minute. Other than a loan spell with Roasso Kumamoto, the Japanese international had spent his entire career with FC Tokyo before coming to the RPL. He scored 18 goals in 225 professional games in Japan, as well as playing in the AFC Champions League.

Photo: Artem Gusev/FC Rostov