In-form Celtic striker Daizen Maeda will miss Japan's vital World Cup qualifying double header against Australia and Vietnam.
The 24-year-old has found his feet in Glasgow and has been pivotal in recent weeks with his work rate coming to the fore.
But he is now a surprise call-off from Hajime Moriyasu's squad which is down to 24 players after three stars dropped out in recent hours.
Maeda has been capped four times by his country but will miss out due to what journalist Dan Orlowitz is describing as "fitness/condition reasons."
Celtic team-mate Reo Hatate will take his place in the squad as he aims to make his international duty and help his country punch their ticket to Qatar.
Parkhead followers will hope the forward will be available for their visit to title rivals Rangers on April 3.
Japan are right in the mix to reach the World Cup and a win over the Socceroos will be crucial.
Maeda's role in the Samurai Blue set-up has grown due to the absence of club team-mate Kyogo.
But the 27-year-old revealed on Sunday he is closing in on making his long-awaited return from a hamstring injury with Celtic battling for the title.
Kyogo hasn't played since Boxing Day when he limped off during a 3-0 win over St Johnstone.
