Koki Mizuno: It will be tough when Shunsuke Nakamura leaves Celtic, but I'll make go of it

Jan 11 2009 By Euan Mclean

KOKI MIZUNO tried to use his Nintendo to learn English during his first year in Scotland before calling game over on his attempts to pick up the lingo.

But the young Japanese star admits he might find the language barrier becomes a big problem when his pal Shunsuke Nakamura leaves in the summer.

Countryman Naka took Mizuno under his wing when he arrived 12 months ago as a raw rookie who had never set foot outside Japan.

He admits the well-travelled international's support was priceless as he coped with the culture shock.

Koki even lived with his Hoops team-mate until he got his own place in the same apartment block.

Now with Naka poised to return home when his deal expires at the end of the season Mizuno's bid to remain settled at Parkhead will be even tougher - but the 23-year-old is determined to make a go of it.

Speaking through an interpreter Mizuno said: "This is my first time abroad and many things have been hard for me.

"I was pleased to play some games at the end of last year but overall 2008 was so hard.

"Shunsuke helped me a lot on and off the pitch so has been an important person for me. If he goes in the summer I will miss him a lot.

"He is the only player who speaks Japanese at the club. He's the only person I can communicate with.

"I tried to learn English using a game on my Nintendo but it has not improved."

Last year Mizuno was linked with a loan move back to former club JEF United, raising fears the winger was struggling to adapt.

He played that down and said: "I always wanted to do my best at this club. I'm now used to the environment and cold weather. I live in Glasgow city centre and like it here."

One aspect he still struggles with though is the physical Scottish game.

After making a dream first start, scoring and setting up a goal in a 3-0 win at Falkirk, he kept his place for the Old Firm derby but failed to impose himself.

Mizuno said: "I now know I need to contribute more. I had watched some Old Firm games before but it was still more physical and quicker than I imagined.

"Overall I am satisfied with progress. This year I'd like to get more games and build from there."