Fifty-five-year-old Japanese soccer star Miura Kazuyoshi, known as "Kazu," will play with Oliveirense in Portuguese football's second division.

Yokohama FC, the Japanese club to which Miura belongs, made the announcement at 11:11 a.m. Portugal time on Wednesday. The time was chosen because he has long worn the number 11 shirt.

The club says the deal is a loan transfer until this summer, and that the Portuguese team intends to give him the number 11 shirt.

Miura is a former member of Japan's national team. Last season, he played with another team in the nonprofessional Japan Football League on loan. He appeared in 18 matches and scored two goals, becoming the oldest player to score in the JFL.

Miura turns 56 on February 26, and this season marks his 38th year as a pro.

The veteran player said he is grateful that he can take on a new challenge with the support of his staff, teammates and others. He also said he will make efforts to show everyone that he can play in his own way in his new team.

Oliveirense was established in 1922. Its managing rights have been acquired by the parent company of Yokohama FC.

The Portuguese club hopes to improve its players and staff through cooperation with Yokohama FC. It also wants Miura to play a role in possible transfers of other players.