Celtic ‘rubbing their hands together’ after ‘massive’ Kyogo news – pundit
Celtic will be “rubbing their hands together” as Kyogo Furuhashi’s Old Firm availability is a “massive boost”, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, hailed the Japan setup for taking the most “sensible” decision.
As quoted by the Daily Record (17 January), Japan boss Hajime Moriyasu has admitted it will be “difficult” to call up Furuhashi for crucial World Cup qualifiers against China (27 January) and Saudi Arabia (1 February).
His involvement would have meant missing Celtic’s vital Old Firm meeting with Rangers on 2 February.
Whelan sympathised with Japan’s “disappointment” but said the Hoops will now have “peace of mind” about Kyogo’s condition.
“That’s a massive boost,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I think Postecoglou will be rubbing his hands together, along with the Celtic fans.
“It might not be perfect for Japan, but if you look at the situation with travelling and Covid right now, it’s the most sensible thing to do.
“I don’t think you should be putting anyone at unnecessary risk. It’s the right decision.
“It’ll be peace of mind for Celtic not only because they won’t be losing him, but also because there’ll be no COVID or injury coming back into the camp.
“It’s disappointing for Japan, I’m sure – but it’s the right thing to do.”
Furuhashi was absent from the Celtic squad as the Hoops claimed a 2-0 victory over Hibernian on Monday (17 January).
The 12-cap international has scored 16 goals in 26 appearances for Ange Postecoglou’s side this term.
Celtic trail Rangers by just four points atop the Scottish Premiership.
In other news, Frank McAvennie blown away by Hoops star after “one of the best debuts” he’s ever seen.