YOSUKE IDEGUCHI has endured a very slow start to his Celtic career. Ange Postecoglou signed four bhoys from the J-League over the course of the season with Yosuke the only one not to make an impact.
The midfielder was very unlucky to suffer an injury in his debut for the club during a Scottish Cup tie. It really slowed down the Japanese player’s progress and made it difficult to push for a first team place given the intensity the second half of the season was.
Celtic’s preparation for next season begins on Monday morning when players begin returning to Lennoxtown.
Yosuke knows he has to stand out in training, putting himself in front of the manager and showing he can make an impact next season.
The Bhoys have been looking for a defensive midfielder this summer which could hint Ange doesn’t see Ideguchi as that guy.
For the midfielder, Yosuke is determined to make things happen.
“And I am absolutely determined to do well. Here at Celtic it is easy to blend in at the club.
“Above all, there is a lot of respect for Japanese players because Kyogo achieved results before me.
“Reo is also in the same position. Having a Japanese player in the team makes it easier, but it is also a limited position.
“I think it’s great that Reo got results first, but of course it’s frustrating not to play.
“So in order to secure a permanent position here, I have to show my play and features more fully.
“Celtic’s football is very aggressive, so if I were to show my strengths, it would be in switching between offense and defence.
“I hope I can make the switch from defence to attack and from attack to defence.
“There are many offensive players in midfield, so I hope to bring out my strengths which are different from those.
“I want to do it day by day without thinking too much about the future.
“I had always wanted to go abroad again. When Celtic contacted me last autumn I made an immediate decision.
“The last time I was abroad for a year and a half, I only felt frustrated. I was determined to see how much I could do. I have a strong desire to make up for it.
“It’s possible to step up even at the club level.
“It’s my ultimate goal to play for the national team but now I want to be involved in as many games as possible so that I can contribute to the title next season as well.
“I think the results of goals and assists are important, but it’s also difficult for me. It’s not easy because I’m not a very aggressive player. It’s just a required part, so I want to aim for it.”
Ideguchi’s start at Celtic
When we spoke to people in Japan when Celtic brought in Reo Hatate, Maeda and Yosuke, many commentators felt the signing of Yosuke made LESS sense. Yosuke came off a bad season in the J-League and had fallen so far away from contention from the Japan squad.
Ange Postecoglou obviously watched the midfielder play during his time in Japan and felt he could bring something into his team. It’s a big pre-season for Yosuke Ideguchi. We hope he can make the breakthrough.
