Celtic’s competition across the striking berths is mainly headed up by Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah, with both vying weekly to impress Brendan Rodgers.
Predominantly, the former has started most this campaign, registering eight goals and three assists in 21 appearances across all competitions.
On the other hand, Adam Idah has eight goals and one assist to his name and has featured 22 times for the Bhoys, which may surprise some supporters.
Reviewing competition, Brendan Rodgers made it clear he has two number-one Celtic strikers battling it out.
The duo could soon become a trio, with Johnny Kenny set for a senior chance at Parkhead once he returns from Shamrock Rovers.
Come to think of it, few know more about hitting the back of the net for Celtic than John Hartson since the turn of the century, and he has had some wise words to say regarding how Idah can continue thriving at the club.
John Hartson on what Adam Idah can learn from Kyogo Furuhashi
Speaking to Off The Ball, Hartson believes Idah could learn a lot from Furuhashi’s ‘world-class’ movement that he regularly showcases at Celtic.
He explained: “I’m not going to say he’s a good option because he’ll want to start games and he has started a few games. They’re totally different, I think the two strikers that Celtic have, they’re a totally different type of of player all together.
“They both do different things, they both bring their own qualities. Idah , of course, is a much more physical presence. He can run in-behind, he’s powerful, he can hold the ball up and he can take you up the pitch, which is a great asset to have and he’s done really well.
“Last season, I think it was nine goals in 18 games for Celtic on loan. They thought he did well enough to be called back in in terms of a permanent deal with Norwich. I think it was £9 million, in terms of the way the market is inflated now, it sounds big, but nowadays what players are going for, you’re getting a good player for £9 million and somebody who has previously done well for Celtic.
“He’s up against somebody like Kyogo who has been incredible, been at the club a lot longer, played a lot more games in Europe and scored goals in Europe. Scored goals in the Old Firm games and gives you totally something different.
“Kyogo is world-class, he’s a world-class player. His goal at the weekend was unbelievable. He runs across the defensive line, he’s a fox in the box, his movement is outstanding. I think Idah can learn from Kyogo in terms of his movement, but he might just have to be patient Idah to get that regular berth.”
Celtic have two ideal striking options to alternate between
In ideal fashion, Celtic have a nice mix of being able to thread it through or hold it up when needed through the middle.
Furuhashi’s diminutive stature and capacity to stretch backlines has taken him to within touching distance of becoming a Parkhead centurion on the goal front.
Meanwhile, Idah allows for a more direct style of play when necessary, offering a target to cross balls into and work off in possession.
Both have delivered their fare share of moments so far this campaign. With the battle for the number one striker slot ongoing, wish them both the best of luck!
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