Kyogo Furuhashi has admitted he felt "depressed and frustrated" after being snubbed by Japan while playing for Celtic.
The striker - who moved to Rennes in the January transfer window - has played 22 times for his country, the last appearance coming against China in November.
But Kyogo was regularly overlooked for a Samurai Blue call-up while playing for Celtic, despite electric form for the Parkhead club.
Now, Kyogo has admitted being snubbed for international action did get to him while in Glasgow as he reflected on discovering he hadn't made the squad again while travelling for a Champions League match.
The 30-year-old admitted it was "frustrating" to hear the announcement but had to quickly shift his focus to club matters.
Speaking to Lemino Football, Kyogo said: "It was really frustrating, to be honest I think the announcement of the squad was on the day we were traveling for the Champions League away game.
Read more:
-
Unseen moment Schmeichel fumes at rival in St Mirren vs Celtic
-
Irish club respond to 'inaccurate' claims from ex-Celtic & Rangers kid
"I couldn't let it dwell on me.
"To be honest, I was really depressed and frustrated, but I had to play in the Champions League, so I did my best to switch gears."
The striker previously hinted at his hope performances in France could aid his international ambitions.
He said: "I think that if I can prove my strength here in France by playing every week I will be called up by the national team again and I will be able to show a different side of myself.
"I cannot claim to be called up with certainty, but if he can demonstrate my ability at Rennes, it definitely adds to my chances.
"I just want to make an impact here and create chances for my teammates. "I'm very pleased we won in my opening game.
"There are a lot of players in France with very high technical abilities and I know I will challenge myself every day."
