Kaoru Mitoma is targeting an injury-free season – and another trip to a World Cup.

The Albion winger is back home in Japan stepping up his recovery from the back problem which ruled him out of the final months of last season.

He is sure to be a big focus of attention when the Seagulls visit Tokyo for two matches next month.

Mitoma has been filmed running hard on a treadmill at a gym in Yokohama.

He would love to recapture the dazzling form which helped Albion to a top-six finish in 2022-23 and saw him make the World Cup in Qatar.

But he says competition is hotting up for places in the Japan squad so club performances have to be at a high level.

That will be music to the ears of Albion boss Fabian Huerzeler.

Mitoma said: “My first goal is to play the season without getting injured.

“Last year we weren’t able to secure such good results so we want to get access to the Champions League or Europa League.

“The national team is also important so I want to earn the right to participate in the World Cup.

“The number of Japanese players who are going overseas is really increasing and so is the competition.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to compete in multiple World Cups in the future so I have to really cherish the next one.”

Albion face Kashima Antlers, who are currently second in the J.League, on July 24 and then meet mid-table Tokyo Verdy four days later.