Kazuyoshi Miura, who turns 59 in February and is the world’s oldest professional footballer, has signed a loan deal until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

The move means Miura could play in the J.League – the top three divisions of Japanese football – for the first time in five years.

The former Japan striker, who started his career with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, failed to score in 69 minutes across seven appearances last season on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka.

“My passion for football hasn’t changed, no matter how old I get,” he said as he prepares for a 41st season as a professional footballer.