Mitoma returns to strengthen Japan's squad for friendlies against Mexico and the US.

 Kaoru Mitoma was included in the Japan squad on Thursday as they prepare for away friendlies against Mexico and the United States, which will also host next year's World Cup.

The Brighton winger missed Japan's final 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June but is back for Hajime Moriyasu's side to face Mexico in Oakland on September 7 and the United States in Columbus three days later, according to the Japan Football Federation's official website.

Japan became the first team to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada after qualifying last March.