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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Gavin Berry

Ange Postecoglou fires back at Celtic star Kyogo's diving 'warriors' and quips 'he's the size of a jockey'

Ange Postecoglou has fired back at critics who have branded Kyogo a diver.

The Celtic ace has come under scrutiny for some incidents where he has been accused of going down too easily.

Kyogo went over after being struck by Livingston defender Ayo Obileye during a goalless draw at Celtic Park.

The Japanese international also went down in the box during his side’s win over Dundee despite minimal contact.

Footage of another similar incident emerged following the 1-0 win over Hearts involving Scotland stopper John Souttar.

Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd made a quip during coverage of Celtic’s trip to Dundee United on Sunday, saying: “I am surprised Kyogo has recovered as well because I saw he took a serious one during the week as well.”

But Postecoglou has leapt to the defence of his player ahead of his side’s Europa League clash against Real Betis.

He said: “Who are these brave people, these warriors, accusing people?

“Kyogo’s the size of a jockey and he’s playing against guys almost a foot taller than him and all these brave warriors on the outside are casting aspersions.

“I haven't read it. I won't read it. If you end up in arguments with ignorant people you'll eventually become one of them so I kind of ignore those kind of narratives.

"Kyogo has has been great for our football club and great for Scottish football. I'd be surprised if anyone wouldn't want someone of his character and playing ability in their club or league."

"Who are all these brave soldiers sitting in their studios or lounge rooms, throwing these narratives across the bay?"

We’ve teamed up with LiveScore to invite fans to vote for their favourite results - the games which were much more than a score. Vote for the match that mattered to you here

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