The Yokohama defender revealed his Japanese team-mates wanted the Blue Samurai to lose to Australia in Thursday night's World Cup Qualifier because they did not agree with the system in the national team.

There is pressure on coach Vahid Halilhodzic with speculation he may be sacked if they lose to Australia.

A Socceroos win would see Australia qualify for Russia following Suadi Arabia's loss to UAE.

Japan trained at Saitama Stadium on Tuesday as Yoshida stormed out of the room after addressing Degenek’s comments.

“The guy from Australia said that? Well, how many players from Yokohama Marinos play for the national team?” Yoshida asked before leaving the room.

The Southampton defender is also adamant all the conjecture is external.

“To be honest, it’s really calm,” he said.

“People know our situation. For the national team, every single game is important and we have to win, especially in Asia.

“The manager is always under pressure, because that’s what it’s like in their job.”