Dempo SC have completed the acquisition of Japanese midfielder Shinnosuke Honda from Thai Premier League side Buriram United on Saturday, boosting their defence with quality and experience.

Honda, 23, is a six feet tall defender from Fukushima, Japan. He began his career at J-League side Jubilo Iwata before moving on to Buriram United in the Thai Premier League. He was a member of Buriram squad which won the Thai Premier League and Thai FA Cup in 2011. During his stint at Buriram United he spent two seasons on loan playing for Bangkok Glass FC.

Earlier this month, Honda was on trials with Dempo Sports Club where he managed to impress upon their new coach Arthur Papas. “We have added Shinnosuke Honda to our squad because he showed attributes which we felt would further compliment our playing style, and he also adds depth in an area we felt we are not completely balanced due to various reasons as well as being competent in the positions which he can fill both in defence and midfield. We are looking forward to integrating him into the club as soon as possible,” said the Dempo Head Coach.

Honda now becomes Dempo’s fourth signing of the season after Beto, Billy Mehmet and Simon Colosimo.

Libero Sports facilitated the transfer of Shinnosuke Honda from Buriram United to Dempo SC, and FIFA Licensed Agent and Libero Sports Partner Arvind Narayan, who represented Honda in the transfer, said: “Honda is technically a very good defender and has had successful stints at his previous clubs. I am sure he will continue in the same way and with his experience and quality, he will look to be a vital cog in Dempo SC’s team for next season.”

Honda has completed his Indian visa formalities and shall join the team in the first week of September.

(Dempo SC Press Release)