National team manager Vahid Halilhodzic has warned star player Keisuke Honda that he is not guaranteed of a starting place when Japan takes on Saudi Arabia in a crucial World Cup qualifier next Tuesday.
Honda started Japan's 4-0 friendly win over Oman at Kashima Stadium on Friday night but lasted only 61 minutes before making way for Takuma Asano, as a lack of playing time for club side AC Milan caught up with him.
Honda has made only three Serie A appearances for the Italian giants so far this season — racking up just 81 minutes — and Halilhodzic hinted he may drop the Samurai Blue icon for qualifying group leader Saudi Arabia's visit to Saitama Stadium.
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