Former Hearts midfielder Ryotaro Meshino has joined Rio Ave on loan.
The Japanese Under 23 international has agreed a two-season loan deal with the Portguese outfit after being farmed out by Manchester City.
There was much excitement surrounding Meshino’s arrival at Tynecastle a year ago after a drawn out process of obtaining a work permit for the ex-Gamba Osaka man was finally completed.
The club even created a Japanese version of their website to allow fans from the Far East to follow Meshino’s progress.
The wide man showed no little ability during his time at Hearts and was played regularly by Craig Levein and then Austin MacPhee, who helped facilitate his move from City.
He fell out of favour somewhat under Daniel Stendel however, who preferred youngsters Lewis Moore and Euan Henderson out wide.
Meshino made 21 appearances in maroon last season, scoring three goals and providing one assist.
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