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Frank McAvennie was impressed by what he saw from Yuki Kobayashi in his Celtic debut.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Hoops striker said Kobayashi reminded him on Virgil van Dijk.
The 22-year-old made his debut for the Celts in their 4-0 victory over St Mirren on Wednesday (18 January).
The centre-back replaced Cameron Carter-Vickers in the heart of defence.
As shown on CelticTV (19 January), the defender hit the post in the lead up to Liel Abada’s opening goal.
On 23 November, Ange Postecoglou’s side confirmed the signing of Kobayashi on a five-year deal from J-League side Vissel Kobe.
When asked for his assessment of Kobayashi’s debut, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I liked him.
“I think he had the same mentality and this swagger about him that was a bit like Van Djik. When he came to Celtic he was too good, he made everything look easy.
“Kobayashi made everything look easy. Once he gets used to the pace and how quickly people close you down, I think it could be Carter-Vickers and Kobayashi. That could be the partnership.
“He hit the post as well, it would have been nice if he had scored on his debut. He looks a player so I am quite happy.“
Celtic kept their place at the top of the Scottish Premiership table with the win on Wednesday.
Next up the face Greenock Morton in the Scottish Cup on Saturday (21 January).
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