Celtic striker Hyengou Oh has spoken about how Scottish football has helped him become a more physical player.
Oh is currently preparing for a World Cup qualifier tomorrow against China for South Korea and is yet to score for his national team but will be hopeful he can find the back of the net in a crucial qualifier for the World Cup in 2026.
Oh is expected to start tomorrow, with South Korea head coach Jurgen Klinsmann putting his faith in the Celtic striker. Klinsmann has previously flown to Scotland to watch Oh in action for Celtic against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park in April in a 4-1 win.
Despite limited minutes this season, Oh has shown in recent weeks that he is improving as a striker under Brendan Rodgers, with his late winner against St Mirren and double against Aberdeen, both coming off the bench. Oh faced criticism before his recent run of form but has shown resilience to bounce back with crucial goals at a time when Celtic needed him most.
Oh said: [Daily Record], “I know China have a reputation for being physical, but I think the Scottish league is rougher. I am always prepared for a tough match. You have to remember, a year ago I wasn’t even a national team player. I was a young player playing in the K-League, but now I have a lot of experience playing in the Champions League in Europe.
“I’ve grown a lot both in terms of football and as a person. And I believe I can show that I’m doing better both on and off the field I always imagine scoring a goal so hopefully, I can score my first goal for my country. At Celtic, I am getting plenty of opportunities and game time. Regardless of whether you play as a starter or a substitute, you must prepare with the same mindset in any environment to show good performance when you go on. I always prepare with the mindset of giving 150 per cent.”
Oh’s comments highlight his character as a player, showing that he is willing to give his all when on the pitch for Celtic, whether it comes as a starter or substitute. At 22 years old, Oh has shown a maturity beyond his years, displaying patience, a virtue that most young strikers might not exhibit in his situation as second choice striker to Kyogo Furuhashi.
Oh’s future at Celtic is bright, and despite earlier doubts this season over his abilities, he has found his form recently. Brendan Rodgers will likely be keeping a keen eye on how he performs for South Korea tomorrow, especially after Kyogo went off injured against Aberdeen with a head injury last weekend.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
