It’s only taken a hat-trick against Dundee and a goal last week to cement icon status at Celtic for Kyogo Furuhashi – but judging by the fans at Paradise tonight, I think everyone is well and truly aboard the Kyogo train.
The Japanese international, 26, only signed from Vissel Kobe a month ago, and after awaiting the quarantine period, the striker had to wait quite a long time to play for Ange Postecoglou’s men.
But, with a deft chip in the first leg, and some insane movement and determination to score his three against ‘The Dee’ last Sunday, the striker has already shown what he can do in Celtic colours following Andres Iniesta’s glowing recommendation.
And fans have already warmed to Kyogo, with many Japanese flags – probably dusted down from Shunsuke Nakamura’s departure eleven years ago – being brought to Celtic Park today in the first capacity crowd game since March 2020.
現地ではKYOGOブームが起きてます🔥@Kyogo_Furuhashi #UEL | #CELFKJ | #COYBIG🍀 pic.twitter.com/F6tTXHetKg
— Celtic FC Japan Official (@CelticFCJPN) August 12, 2021
@Kyogo_Furuhashi on front of tonight’s programme #CelticFC 🇯🇵 🍀 pic.twitter.com/E6iKHjwLWD
— Whitleybhoy (@PK_7273) August 12, 2021
🎌 Flying the flag for @Kyogo_Furuhashi, @CelticFCJPN! #UEL | #CELFKJ | #COYBIG 🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 12, 2021