Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has stated that Kyogo Furuhashi still isn’t 100% sharp despite a fine performance in Dingwall today.
Kyogo bagged a superb headed effort to give the Hoops the lead in the opening stages in the Highlands. However, he could’ve scored another couple after clipping the crossbar and missing a big one-v-one opportunity in the first 45.
The Japanese international still seriously managed to impress on his return to the starting XI. So much so that it opens up a big debate on who should start between him and Giorgos Giakoumakis against Rangers next week.
But Ange has been speaking to Sky Sports post-match [Sky Sports Football, 24/04, 4:44pm], and sent out a warning to rivals as he said Kyogo isn’t fully sharp just yet:
“He’s obviously missed a big chunk of the season. He’s a hell of a player. We’ve done well without him but it’s great to have him back.
“He’s still not 100% sharp. He probably would’ve had 2 or 3 today in his best form but great for him to get a goal for his reward.”
Kyogo’s effort today marked his 17th of the campaign and his first since returning to action last week [Transfermarkt].
Ange Postecoglou’s Kyogo warning spells a worrying message for Celtic foes
Kyogo made his mark felt with a fine header this afternoon. However, on another day he could’ve really been leaving Dingwall with a hat-trick and the match ball. That’s how good he was.
All strikers miss opportunities, we know that to be the case. And in fairness, Kyogo is no different and has spurned some huge chances himself this season.
But it’s interesting and exciting that Ange believes he didn’t look fully sharp today. Especially considering how effective he was regardless. Kyogo was by far our liveliest forward player and got in behind the County defence on several occasions.
Next up, as we all know, is Rangers at Celtic Park. You get the feeling Ange is ready to throw him back into that environment in the hope he can be our main man. Still to net his first derby goal, Kyogo’s stock with the Celtic support would grow even bigger if he can net in that one.
You could even say his return to action today played a key role in the fans’ excitement levels this afternoon. He was a constant menace to the County backline, and you could see how uncomfortable he was when he ran at them. Not to mention he could’ve easily had a second with a debatable offside goal chopping off his second.
In any case, it’s great to have him back. What an ace he could be for us in the closing weeks of the season.
In other news, Celtic deliver huge title response as rival pundits fail in bid to pile on the pressure
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