Arsenal release Japan star Inamoto

Arsenal have released Junichi Inamoto, one of the biggest stars of the World Cup, on a free transfer.

The future of the 22-year-old midfielder was decided at the end of the season after the Japan star failed to force his way into the Arsenal first team.

He only made four appearances for the Double winners, two in the Champions League and two in the Worthington Cup.

His name will be circulated on a list of free transfers that is available to all clubs from the Professional Footballers' Association.

Inamoto has become the idol of Japan after winning two man-ofthe-match awards and last night scoring the goal to earn the country their first ever World Cup win, over Russia.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has praised his former player's performances at the finals.

But Inamoto failed to settle in England although the fact he was released on a free transfer when he is believed to have cost £4 million from Gamba Osaka is a mystery.