Japan and Yokohama striker Tatsuhiko Kubo has suffered a fresh injury blow that could threaten Japan's World Cup preparations, his club said on Wednesday.

The 29-year-old had returned to his best form after recovering from a series of long-term injuries but broke down with chronic back pain during training with his club this week.

"He says he's afraid even to move because of the pain," said his manager from Yokohama F-Marino, Takeshi Okada.

"Once he can move better he will undergo treatment."

Kubo has come back into the Japan team after being recalled by Japan coach Zico in January, and has scored three goals in his last three appearances for the Japan national team.

The Japan national coach, Brazilian legend Zico, will be anxious to have Kubo fit in the run-up to this year's World Cup in Germany with his other strikers struggling for form.

Japan have been drawn in Group F in the World Cup finals, alonside current holders Brazil, Croatia and Australia.

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