"As a player I still have strong passion and I still want to improve as a player. I would regret it if I quit the game now," the 42-year- old Nakayama told a press conference Thursday.

Nakayama was told earlier this week that his services would not be required next season but was offered an adviser's role at Iwata, where he has spent his entire professional career.

Asked if he had considered hanging up his boots, Nakayama said, "If the thought of retiring ever did cross my mind then I would probably lean in that direction. I get teased by my family, who ask 'Are you really going to keep on playing?'"

Nakayama, the first division's all-time top scorer with 157 goals, has yet to receive any interest from other clubs.

He has been limited to two games this season but has not played in any league matches.

Nakayama scored 36 goals in 1998 to earn the J-League MVP award and helped Iwata to a two-stage double in 2002.

Affectionately known as "Gon," Nakayama scored Japan's first ever goal at the World Cup in a 2-1 defeat to Jamaica in 1998 in France.

He scored 21 goals in 53 international appearances and was also a member of the national squad for the 2002 World Cup Japan co-hosted with South Korea.