#21 Eiji Kawashima Country: Japan Height: 1.85 m6-1 Birthdate: 20/03/1983 Position: Goalkeeper Weight: 74 kg163 lbs Birthplace: Yono, Japan Team: Kawasaki Frontale League: J-League

Bio

Kawashima heads to South Africa as the likely backup for expected starter Seigo Narazaki. Kawashima, a 27-year-old making his World Cup debut, could be in line for the starting spot for the 2014 event in Brazil with Japan's other top goaltenders both making their fourth straight appearance this summer, but he's probably just injury insurance this time around. Though he has only eight caps under his belt, he has shown potential that he'll be able to take the next step after nearly a decade in the Japan League. Kawashima started with Division 2 Omiya Ardija before advancing to Nagoya Grampus Eight. He's currently in his fourth season with Kawasaki Frontale, where he was named to the J-League's Best Eleven list and honored with the Fair Play Award in 2009. A talented keeper, Kawashima has sharp reflexes and communicates well on the field. He's a valuable backup with a bright future in international play ahead of him.

Player Stats