Height is definitely important for a goal keeper but sincerely the best height is at 1,80s for a goal keeper to be generally good in a lot of different parameters of the graphic.
Has it been said that Akiyama's already been selected for the national team or not ? I don't remember it being told, but seeing his level, it wouldn't be surprising... Especially since his rival Makimura is.
Two breaks for the author (and Gin & co). Both goalie's are likeable/admirable. I don't want either to give up a goal. That save reminds me of the upside goal from Tachibana and the Tripone vertical leg. Wonder what kind of stuff he did with the Sumo club, was it just standard resistance training or more like how they explode from their set position?
Wonder when Ren will become a factor? I guess on the counter attack in the upcoming chapters.
@gintamacountry: yes, because the only Japanese keeper I know is Eiji Kawashima who played for Lierse and Standard Luik after a tenure at Kawasaki Frontale. Did not get the reference and had to look him up, sorry. Might by a fan of Japansese football, but not a connaisseur :)
So I come up with a 'loser' i do know indeed. Kostas Lamprou has had exactly the same problem as Makimura (bias included) throughout his career in the Netherlands: Feyenoord, Exelsior, WillemII Tilburg, Ajax and Vitesse. After every goal he got he was lambasted for being too small for top football. You could say he is in a harsh environment now at RKC Waalwijk, small club which should have relegated last year.
@Alex_79
what i'm trying to say is there are better examples such as sergio alvarez who plays in la liga or itumeleng khune and wuilker farinez for capped players.