Moriyasu joins Sydney FC

Moriyasu, who was playing for APIA Leichhardt in the NSW Premier League, grew up in both Japan and the United States and previously played for Mitsubishi Mizushima in the J3 league.

He was on the verge of quitting football to get a "normal job" when he received the opportunity play in Australia in March.

“Something tweaked inside me when I was close to quitting. I knew I had to come and try out here. This is unbelievable,” Moriyasu said.

“I just brought a ticket to Australia so I am just so happy right now.

“The facilities, the standard of football and the coaching staff are just fantastic. I am so happy and want to win.”

Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka said the addition of Moriyasu is invaluable for his team, especially given the massive season the club has ahead of it.

“Hiro is a very versatile player. He impressed me. Since he came to us and trained he has done very well. We are very happy he has signed with Sydney FC,” Lavicka said.

“We have a very good midfield and Hiro is important new player to that. He is the same type of player we looked for. He can play holding midfield; he can play wide and in the diamond.”

APIA honorary chairman Tony Raciti believes Moriyasu is more than capable of handling the pace of the country's top league.

"I’ve been involved with the club for 35 years and without a shadow of a doubt he is the most outstanding player at the state league level," he said.

"He brings a typical Japanese discipline, extraordinary strength of character and the utmost respect for his team-mates and club he plays for.

After impressing in four trial matches, Moriyasu is expected to play for the Sky Blues this Sunday when the club meets AEK Athens in game one of the Sydney Festival of Football at Sydey Football Stadium.