Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou makes an outstanding public anti-racism statement

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Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has come out strongly in support of Kyogo Furuhashi.

As reported by Sky Sports and other outlets, Kyogo was the target of racist abuse in a video being circulated on social media over the weekend.

Rangers have confirmed in a statement today they’ve banned the supporters involved from attending future matches.

Celtic also condemned the behaviour in a statement last night, as we’ve already discussed.

Now Postecoglou has had his say, making it clear what he thinks about it all.

Speaking on Celtic TV, the Bhoys boss said: “To be honest, it saddens me a lot because I’m the one that’s brought him over here. I spent three and a half years in Japan. I was a foreigner and I was welcomed with open arms over there. I know how polite and respectful the Japanese people are.

“I’m sure his experience is totally the extreme opposite of what’s been portrayed in the last 48 hours. Talking to him, he’s loved being here, he loves the city, he loves the way everyone’s embraced him.

“And it saddens me that such a small element who, as you said it’s not about education. People are more than well aware of what’s right and wrong.

“Just be a decent human being and treat people with respect. I’ve been lucky enough to walk around Glasgow and you see all the different nationalities of different establishments. It’s obvious people come from all over the world to make this city a great city and I love that. That’s my background, I’m an immigrant.

“Even if it is a minority it shouldn’t be there. Our number one priority is to support and protect the player.”

It’s a brilliant message to send as the leader of Celtic. It’s also fantastic to hear that Kyogo is managing to settle well into the country despite actions from a minority such as this.

As the manager says, the club will be supporting the Japanese forward strongly.

I didn’t think it was possible to love Postecoglou more than I do, but he takes it to new levels every week. What a guy. What a leader.

In other news, Welsh reveals Ange’s brilliant half-time dressing room message to Celtic on Saturday.