Kyogo still has “a bit to do yet” before any Larsson comparisons – Martin O’Neill

Martin O’Neill had the pleasure and the privilege of coaching and managing arguably the greatest Celtic striker of all-time, and certainly the best of the modern-era. Henrik Larsson was truly a world-class talent and the Hoops were lucky enough to have him during his leak years for seven wonderful seasons in Glasgow.

18 Mar 2001: Henrik Larsson  is congratulated by his manager Martin O”Neill as his hat-trick won the cup for his team after the Scottish CIS Insurance Cup Final against Kilmarnock played at Hampden. Celtic won the match 3-0. Photo Jamie McDonald /Allsport

Such was Larsson’s ability and gravitas, he scored against the very best in Europe and was consistent in scoring in all company. He struck fear into the hearts of the opposition defenders and particularly those of the Rangers. He must have been an absolute nightmare for their supporters to watch and had their number on many occasions.

There seems to be a striking resemblance to his exploits from our very own Japanese forward Kyogo Furuhashi; he also strikes fear into opposition defenders and like Henrik, enjoys a rather wealthy record of goals against theRangers. However, perhaps the definitive guide to separating both men lies in the goals Larsson scored on the continent and his career after the Bhoys – winning a Champions League with Barcelona and Premier League with Manchester United.

Indeed, Kyogo has a long way to go unitl he is of that ilk and Martin O’Neill revealed as much to PLZ Soccer recently. Although he did see certain parallels between the two and praised Kyogo’s appetite and enthusiasm in the penalty area, he reckons he has some way to go before he can be heralded in that category with Mr. Larsson.

Watch O’Neill discuss Kyogo Furuhashi below…

Paul Gillespie

About Author

I'm a Garngad Bhoy through and through. My first ever Celtic game was a friendly against Italian side Parma at Celtic Park, in 2002. Currently a student of English Literature and Education at the University of Strathclyde for my sins. Favourite game would be a toss up between beating Manchester United with that Naka freekick, or the game against the Oldco when Hesselink scored in the dying seconds. I'm still convinced Cal Mac is wasted playing that far back.

1 Comment

  1. Not in same league as Larson.
    Griffith on form a better option than Kyogo.
    Free kicks a bonus.