Celtic hero Chris Sutton on the "fascinating" player at Postecoglou's disposal

By Euan Davidson

November 10, 2021

Celtic striker Chris Sutton has given his take on the Bhoys’ on-form striker, Kyogo Furuhashi.

When Kyogo scored a flurry of goals early on, we were left stunned by his sudden impact. Whether he could maintain form, though, was the question. An injury hampered the Japan international, while on international duty.

But the lovable Japanese striker has probably been more clinical since he returned. That was illustrated by a brace against Dundee [Sky Sports], and brilliant finishes against Ferencvaros.

Obviously, Sutton is well-versed in scoring goals for Celtic. So in his latest comments about Kyogo, he outlined the qualities that the former Vissel Kobe frontman has shown.

Speaking on the Record Celtic Podcast, Sutton said:

“I think that his movement is top drawer. Really, really top drawer. We know he has great pace, but the timing of the runs, it’s a fascinating watch in the game.

“He just catches your eye as a player, really. He’s been well-coached, he’s taken things on board. I think his hold-up play is very, very clean.

“He’s most effective as a central striker, I think we’d all agree on that. It’s the Giakoumakis issue which could be an issue for Ange Postecoglou. How does he get both of them in the team?

“I know [Kyogo’s] had a lot of football, but Celtic can’t afford to leave him out of the side.”

Imagine Chris Sutton and Kyogo Furuhashi up front together for Celtic…

It’s hard to impress Chris Sutton. Take it from a man who, in 2003, made him wait a second while I borrowed a pen from someone else on the Celtic Park tour. In the end, I got his autograph, so I had the last laugh.

In all seriousness, though, Sutton is a pretty harsh critic. Read his blistering critique of James McCarthy for evidence of that. Or just Google his name.

When it comes to strikers, Sutton is particularly well-informed, of course. A Premier League winner with Blackburn Rovers, and a £10m signing for Chelsea [Independent], his words on Kyogo hold weight.

He’s right though; how do Celtic get the best out of both Kyogo and Giakoumakis? Both are best up front, and possibly as solo strikers in a front three.

Kyogo can still contribute from the left-wing, but not with the same voracity. So far, at least, he’s been at his best tying central defenders up in knots. From the flank, he’s easier to defend against.

It’s a conundrum, albeit a good one for Ange Postecoglou. And here’s hoping Kyogo can “fascinate” both Chris Sutton and the Celtic support for a long time yet.

Read more: “Celtic were brilliant”; Eddie Howe finally explains summer decision