Deng primed to shine for Diamonds as J.League door opens

Olyroos skipper Thomas Deng will pull on the famous strip of Urawa Red Diamonds next season, after sources in Japan revealed he has agreed terms with the J1 League giants.

Source: Socceroos Twitter

Hot on the heels of Melbourne Victory announcing the departure of the gifted defender, it can be revealed that Deng has linked up with the five-time J.League champions, who are looking to rebound in 2020 after a disappointing domestic campaign in which they finished 14th.

However, they did reach the final of the AFC Champions League, succumbing 3-0 on aggregate to Saudi powerhouse Al Hilal.

Deng can grab extra intel on what lies ahead from erstwhile Victory teammate Andrew Nabbout, who recently returned to the club after a 16-month stint with Urawa.

The 22-year-old, according to J1 League resident Australian Mitch Langerak, will thrive in Japan.

“I know he will do really well,” said the Nagoya Grampus shot-stopper.

“He’s a top player and has proven himself over the years in the A-League and has shown he’s ready for the next step.

“To play in Japan you need to be technically at a very high level, so he has no problems there.

“And his physicality and athleticism will be a big advantage.

“Most teams in the J.League like to play out from the back and at a high tempo, so it will suit him very well.

“The Japanese clubs look after their players extremely well so settling in won’t be an issue and I can see him thriving in Japan.”

But Langerak warned that Deng will need to match his potential with a relentless work-rate and desire.

“Foreigners don’t get a free pass in Japan ... you have to earn your place and work hard to show that you deserve to play,” he added.

“It’s the whole package, which I think will suit him and I’m looking forward to playing against him, whichever club he goes to.”