After spending the last few weeks back amongst first-team training for the first time since late December, many fans were left a little surprised at not seeing Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi in the matchday squad yesterday.
Of course, it has been around three months since he was last involved in competitive action, which is probably a good enough reason for not risking the Japanese internationalist.
But with the size of the fixture, many expected Kyogo to be somewhat involved.
Despite missing out, it appears Celtic fans won’t have to wait long before we see Kyogo make his long-awaited return from injury, with Ange Postecoglou confirming that he will be available for selection for next weekend’s fixture against St Johnstone.
The Celtic boss also made a brilliant comment in jest, showcasing Kyogo’s desperation to play a part on Sunday, with the 27-year old making sure Ange was aware he was back, around Lennoxtown last week.
“Yes, he’ll be fine,” Ange said in reply to being asked about Kyogo via BBC Sportsound.
“He was desperate to play today, but when I look at our run-in, we’ve got some massive games. He’s such an important player for us, and I thought today we could handle it without him.
“To be fair, he tried everything. Everywhere I turned, he popped up in front of me to make sure I knew he was ready to go. I couldn’t walk around Lennoxtown without seeing him. But we’ll keep him on ice. He’s ready to go, he’ll be fine, and he’ll be involved next week.”
Despite being without Kyogo for so long and during a crucial point in the season, this Celtic side has been almost faultless during a run of brilliant form dating back to September.
It must be a scary thought for opposition defences, seeing that the frontman is about to make his return whilst this Celtic side are full of confidence and on form.
Ange’s comments just showcase the brilliant attitude of the players within this side, who are desperate to be involved in every game and do not stop until the very end.
I am sure Kyogo will receive an amazing welcome back next week in front of a packed Celtic Park crowd.
