Shinji Okazaki To Feature From Bench In Stuttgart Debut

New signing Shinji Okazaki set to start on the bench against Nuernberg.
Japanese striker Shinji Okazaki is set to make his Stuttgart debut this weekend against Nuernberg, but will likely do so from the bench, according to a report by Spox.

Stuttgart coach Bruno Labbadia has claimed that Okazaki is fit and available, having trained with the squad since Wednesday.

"He is fit and ready to play," said the Stuttgart tactician. "The performance is important for everybody."

Okazaki himself seemed delighted at the thought of helping the side, who are currently battling to remain in the Bundesliga, saying: "I am ready to help the team in the relegation battle."

The match against Nuernberg is an important one for Stuttgart, as they currently sit 17th of 18 teams in the Bundesliga.