Excitement is mounting in Tokyo over Albion’s visit.

And not just because of Kaoru Mitoma.

The Japan international is set to make his return from injury as the Seagulls face Kashima Antlers and Tokyo Verdy in friendlies next week.

Albion had a busy and successful trip to the USA last year and the current plan is for them to return to the States and look to build on that next summer.

But the current sights are on making an impact in the Far East.

Mitoma will be the main attraction and a spokesman for the Tokyo Seagulls supporters club said: “There is a lot of excitement.

“A lot, of course, is about Mitoma but other players are very popular, like Danny Welbeck.

“We get a lot of European clubs coming to Japan but Brighton have Mitoma and a lot of our group are very excited.”

Albion are happy with ticket sales so far and expect crowds of between 15,000 and 20,000 for their games at the National Stadium.

Fans will get the chance to attend a training session and there is also a social event ahead of the Tokyo Verdy game.

Mitoma said: “It will be very nice for the fans who watch us on TV to come and see us play there.

“We will be playing against great J-League teams.”