Birmingham City loaned out Ayumu Yokoyama to Belgian side Genk at the end of the winter transfer window
Ayumu Yokoyama has gone from the peripheries of a promotion push to the heat of a relegation battle since leaving Birmingham City.
Having only made 10 substitute appearances in League One under Chris Davies, Japanese winger Yokoyama was allowed to leave Blues at the end of the winter transfer window to join Belgian side Genk.
Yokoyama hasn’t joined up with Belgian Pro League leaders Genk, he has instead been signed to play for Jong Genk – their B team which plays in Belgium’s second tier.
“I am extremely happy with this opportunity at Jong Genk,” said Yokoyama, who will play alongside compatriots Yumeki Yosinaga and Kenshin Yasuda. “The club is known for developing young talent and I can’t wait to further hone my skills here. It is a big step in my career and I will give everything for the team.”
Yokoyama’s first appearance came last weekend as Jong Genk suffered a 1-0 defeat to Patro Eisden. He produced a lively cameo after coming on in the 56th minute with two shots, one which worked the goalkeeper and one which whistled over the crossbar.
Yokoyama, who will turn 22 next month, is one of the older players in Jong Genk’s squad and should play a key role in their final 10 matches.
They are three points adrift at the bottom of Belgium’s second tier and in serious danger of being relegated.
Jong Genk take on KAS Eupen this evening in a relegation six-pointer. The league system in Belgium means that Yokoyama, despite playing for what is effectively a development side, will learn all about football’s jeopardy during his loan spell.