3. Ryuji Sueoka
Ryuji Sueoka started his playing career with J1 side Albirex Niigata club making 22 appearances between 2002 and 2005. Sueoka played in clubs like Albirexs Niigata Singapore, Bangkok United before signing for Mohun Bagan AC in the 2009-10 season.
He had an impressive season with the Mariners scoring 5 goals in 7 matches. Known for his vision and excellent ball distribution; he was a midfield maestro controlling the game from the center, creating spaces for himself and forward line.
In the subsequent seasons, Sueoka played for Salgaocar SC,Dempo, East Bengal and Pune FC. In 2011, he was awarded as the “Best Player of I-League” and is fondly remembered by Indian football fans for his exquisite first touch and defense threading passes.
After retiring, Suoeka now collects worn our football boots from all over Japan and fixes them before sending them to underprivileged children in India…a truly remarkable player and human being, Ryuji Sueoka will be remembered in India for his down to earth demeanour and impact both on and off the pitch.