Kyogo Furuhashi has revealed why he turned down the chance to return to Celtic in January after Martin O’Neill tried to bring the striker back to Parkhead.
Speaking to Record Sport, Kyogo confirmed he was pleased to receive the offer but felt he still had something to prove in England.
He said: “I was very happy with the offer at that time.
“However, at the time, my main priority was to re-establish myself at Birmingham.”
That was ultimately enough for Kyogo to remain at St Andrew’s rather than make a quick return to Glasgow.
The interest from Celtic came only a year after Kyogo had left the club, but his comments make clear there was no lack of affection for Parkhead.
Kyogo’s spell there was later disrupted by a shoulder problem which required surgery and brought his season to an early end.
He has since moved on again, joining LA Galaxy as he looks to get his career moving in a different direction.
Despite turning Celtic down in January, Kyogo still speaks warmly about his time in Glasgow.
He said: “I loved my time with Celtic. It was such a special period, but at the time I was looking for a new challenge.”
The striker also admitted he was aware that his original departure had disappointed plenty of supporters.
He added: “I’m very sad that I may have broken some hearts. However, I’m not retired. I believe there will be a time where we can all meet again. All great things with Celtic.”
Kyogo spent three-and-a-half years at Celtic and scored 85 goals, while also collecting eight trophies during a hugely successful spell.
His decision not to return in January may have closed one door at the time, but the 31-year-old has not completely ruled out another chapter with the club in the future.
For now, though, his focus is on LA Galaxy after explaining for the first time why he chose to stay at Birmingham when Celtic came calling.
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