Kyogo Furuhashi enjoyed a goal-scoring return to international duty today. The Celtic striker netted Japan’s sixth goal after coming on as a second-half substitute in the 6-0 rout of El Salvador.
The goal marked the end of a nine-month hiatus from international duty. You can watch the goal here.
The Celtic striker last appeared for the Samurai Blues in a 0-0 draw with Ecuador in September 2022. And despite his incredible goal-scoring form for Celtic, he was snubbed by Hajime Moriyasu for the Qatar World Cup.
The 28-year-old was interviewed post-match and paid tribute to the Japan fans for their encouragement and also gave a little nod to the hard work he put in at Celtic for giving him confidence in front of goal.
Kyogo said [Hochi News], “I’m excited and eager to score goals and they [the Japan fans] gave me really great support.
“Yuki (Soma) gave me a good ball and I was able to calmly put it on course, so that was good. I was trying to play inside and put it in the box.
“I expect results and scoring. I’ve been working hard all year. I think it gave me confidence. I want to prepare well and compete with everyone.” [translated by Deep L].
Kyogo’s stock could not be much higher right now. After a world-record treble-winning season, the Japanese striker also picked up a whole host of personal awards.
The striker was chosen by his peers to receive the PFA Player of the Year Award. With thirty goals to his credit [at the time], the Japanese striker also won Top Goal Scorer and Celtic’s Player of the Year awards.
Kyogo will be a major part in Celtic’s future success next season. The first thing Brendan Rodgers needs to do is sit the Japanese striker down and tie him to a new and improved, long-term contract to help stave off interest from potential suitors.
But for now, Kyogo can look forward to next Tuesday when Japan are set to face Peru. No doubt, after this performance, he will be a favourite to start in what will be his 18th appearance for Japan.
In other news, Talksport pundit destroys Brendan Rodgers narrative; Celtic support have good days ahead
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