Celtic handed ‘huge’ Boxing Day blow after fresh Kyogo reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted Kyogo Furuhashi is a “huge miss” for Celtic after yet another injury setback.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 26-year-old is well on his way to becoming that “popular figure at Parkhead”.
Furuhashi recovered from a hamstring problem to score a brace in last week’s League Cup triumph but missed out as Celtic were held by a depleted St Mirren side on Wednesday (22 December).
As quoted by the Glasgow Times post-match, Hoops boss Ange Postecoglou confirmed that the Japan international is injured and claimed it is “unlikely” he will return against St Johnstone on 26 December.
Whelan hinted the fitness of Kyogo and Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos will play a “key” role in this season’s title battle.
“He’s a huge miss for Celtic,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He showed his quality in the cup final last week. Two top-class finishes, calm and composed, very clinical – he knew exactly what he wanted to do, and he executed it perfectly.
“Kyogo has made such a brilliant start in a Celtic shirt, so well-loved by the fans – he’s well on his way to becoming that popular figure at Parkhead.
“Already the Celtic faithful know they can rely on him in these big moments – his movement and positioning is just so good.
“It’s clear to me that he and Morelos are going to be key figures in this title battle this season, and it’s going to be vital that they stay fit and sharp.”
Celtic are struggling with an extended injury list presently, with star winger Jota among those sidelined.
The Hoops trail Scottish Premiership leaders Rangers by six points after 19 games.
In other news, pundit tells Celtic to build team around newly-found “diamond” after Henrik Larsson claim.