Japan have withdrawn from this summer’s Copa America after they were unable to secure the release of both domestic and foreign-based players for the competition, the Japan Football Association have announced.

The Japan Football Association have begun their search for a new national team coach after Takeshi Okada reiterated his intention to step down.

The Japan Football Association have officially declared their intention to bid for the right to host the World Cup in either 2018 or 2022.

Former Brazilian star Zico is reportedly leading the chase to become the next coach of World Cup co-hosts Japan.