Hayato Inamura was handed a starting spot in last night’s 2-1 victory over Cork in the Cork Super Cup and had Celtic supporters raving over his performance in his 45 minute cameo.
Forget the scoreline, although it will have been a memorable moment for young Colby Donovan who scored a late headed winner, this was more about getting players much needed fitness and Inamura was one who excelled in the sunny Irish conditions.
Hayato Inamura of Celtic reacts Cork City v Celtic, Pre Season Friendly, Football, SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Cork, Ireland – 08 July 2025 Cork SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh Ireland Photo Lorraine O Sullivan Shutterstock
The newly signed Japanese defender was given the left back berth as Brendan Rodgers named a strong starting XI for the first half of tonight’s pre season clash.
Inamura shined in a side that also contained the likes of James Forrest, Callum McGregor Arne Engels, and Luke McCowan with the latter scoring a thunderous strike to give the Celts a deserved first half lead with our latest Japanese addition impressing with his calmness and composure, with his long range passing also catching the eye.
No one was expecting the Japanese defender to start giving Brendan’s recent comments on his development, but he did and grabbed his opportunity with both hands.
Brendan Rodgers manager of Celtic meets fans before the game Cork City v Celtic, Pre Season Friendly, Football, SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Cork, Ireland – 0 Jul 2025Cork SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh Ireland Photo Lorraine O’Sullivan Shutterstock
It’s only early days though and there will be tougher tests ahead, but Inamura has given a fine first impression and won over the watching Celtic supporters in the process.
Hayato Inamura of Celtic Cork City v Celtic, Pre Season Friendly, SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh, Cork, Ireland – 08 Jul 2025Cork SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh Ireland. Photo Lorraine O’Sullivan Shutterstock
Perhaps more importantly he seems to have shot up in Brendan Rodgers’ own expectations and that could see the new Bhoy remaining at Celtic this season rather than going out on loan as seemed to be the manager’s initial intention.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
Help raise funds for Celtic Youth Academy by playing the Celtic Pools Weekly Lottery and you could win up to £25,000. The lottery is £1 per week. Click on image above to join.
