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Keisuke Honda in training with Orange County SC

By Roy Emanuel

CHOFU, JAPAN - JUNE 07: Keisuke Honda of Japan runs with the ball during the international friendly match between Japan and Syria at Tokyo Stadium on June 7, 2017 in Chofu, Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images)
CHOFU, JAPAN - JUNE 07: Keisuke Honda of Japan runs with the ball during the international friendly match between Japan and Syria at Tokyo Stadium on June 7, 2017 in Chofu, Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images) /
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The free agent is staying busy on the search for a new club.

The summer months of pre-season preparation will often see players work with clubs around the world to remain fit and improve their skills, with free agents often using these sessions as a way of displaying their talents for potential suitors.

One notable such example this week was Japanese international and former AC Milan midfielder Keisuke Honda, as he spent time with USL side Orange County SC.

Currently out of contract after several productive seasons at the San Siro, the 31-year-old is exploring options in the United States to continue his career. Honda has featured at the past two FIFA World Cups (2010 & 2014) for his home nation, and has often been regarded as one of the best free-kick specialists anywhere on the globe.

Talk of his arrival in Seattle has been present for months, with the Sounders reportedly quite interested in signing the talented winger. Honda plied his trade in the Netherlands and Russia before the Italian Serie A with the Rossoneri.

Currently sitting 13th in the USL Western Conference standings, Orange County should feel boosted by working with an individual who has achieved great success throughout Europe as they prepare to face Phoenix Rising FC this Saturday.

Whether Honda would be looking to join the club is another matter, as he likely has other options to consider. Orange County head coach Logan Pause was certainly thrilled to have the Japanese legend spend time with his squad.

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“It is not every day you get the chance to work with a world-class player, and it was a fantastic opportunity for our players to see first-hand the quality of a player who has played at the highest level possible.”

An extended stay in California?

While on the surface this could simply be a player aiming to stay in-shape during a period of free agency, it would also be a tremendous signing if Orange County are in any type of negotiations with Keisuke Honda. While the player may see Major League Soccer as the ideal landing spot, USL offers unique intangibles as well.

The division has attracted the likes of Didier Drogba and Joe Cole in recent years, and has grown in a massive way as well.

Next: Tottenham turn their attention to new attacking target

An individual who has achieved so much for both club and country over the years, Keisuke Honda appears set to open a new chapter of his career in the United States. Where that may be is still yet to be seen.

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