Hajime Hosogai was named Man of the Match in Hertha Berlin's surprise opening day 6-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga on the weekend.
The 27-year old Japanese midfielder starred for Hertha as they romped to a home win to kick-off the season, providing one assist for Sami Allagui's second goal in the 60th minute.
Hosogai's performance was acclaimed by Hertha manager Jos Luhukay as well as club captain Fabian Lustenberger.
"Hosogai was sensational for me today," said Luhukay of the man he signed from Bayer Leverkusen this summer.
Lustenberger added: "We know he has a great deal of class. He's a Japanese international and you don't become that by doing nothing. He played a very, very good game."
Hosogai admitted he was unsure if he was even going to start, let alone clinch the Man of the Match prize.
"It certainly surprised me a little," he said. "I only found out just before the game that I was playing."
Adrian Ramos and Allagui both netted doubles for Hertha, with John Anthony Brooks and Ronny also on the scoresheet, whilst Alexander Meier converted from the penalty spot for Frankfurt.
