Andy Walker explains why Japan’s Kyogo Furuhashi snub is ‘really good news’ for Celtic
Andy Walker explains why Japan’s Kyogo Furuhashi snub is ‘really good news’ for Celtic
Celtic received both good and bad news in equal measures over the festive period and that was Kyogo Furuhashi being snubbed by Japan.
The Asian Cup is underway, with Celtic duo Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate representing their respective country, but there was no place for their club teammate.
Andy Walker told Go Radio that Kyogo Furuhashi is going to be ‘fired up’ as a result of all of this, with domestic action returning after the winter break.
Brendan Rodgers’ men welcome Highland Football League side Buckie Thistle to Parkhead on Sunday, with Celtic’s star man expected to start up front.
This is the 29-year-old’s chance to let it all out and prove to Hajime Moriyasu that he made a mistake not selecting him – Japan suffered a shock defeat to Iraq on Friday.
Whilst fans will be disappointed for Kyogo Furuhashi that he didn’t get picked, it means that he remains fresh and ready for the second half of the campaign.
And Andy Walker is backing the multiple derby day hero to explode during these coming months by proving why he is the best in the country.
Kyogo FuruhashI after Japan snub
“I think it’s really good news that Kyogo isn’t in Japan,” said Walker. “I think the way he played against Rangers showed you that he has still got exceptional qualities.
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“The goal he scored was absolutely magnificent. The fact that he hasn’t got any international games to play. I think he will be fired up to just do his best for Celtic. I think there is more to come from him.
“He was outstanding last season. I don’t think he has reached those levels yet. So, maybe you will see Kyogo, as well as the Celtic team, been a lot more improved in the second half of the season.”

Kyogo Furuhashi’s form
From his 22 Scottish Premiership games this season, he only has eight goals to his name. It’s certainly a drop-off from his usual high standards.
But it also needs to be noted that he netted twice in the Champions League, whilst also scoring the winner home and away against Rangers.
When it has mattered most, Kyogo has stepped up and showcased his true worth.
And everyone in Scotland is fully aware that if the Japan star turns up the heat during the coming months, then the title is only going to head towards one direction.