Kyogo Furuhashi has revealed the ‘who is this guy?’ attitude towards him in the Celtic dressing room when he rocked up for his debut.
The Japanese star was pitched into the squad for an opening day clash with Hearts at Tynecastle last August. He was named on the bench and came on in the second half with the score at 1-1 as the Hoops set about trying to regain their title from Rangers, champions in 2020/21
Former Celt Gary Mackay-Steven gave the Jambos an early lead before Anthony Ralston's stunner restored parity. However, Ange Postecoglou suffered a late blow during his first Premiership match in the dugout when John Souttar headed a late winner. Kyogo ’s cameo came to little as he struggled to get involved. That was understandable given he had yet to train with his new teammates. And he admitted that contributed to a quiet debut in the hoops.
However, he announced himself with a bang the following week with a hat-trick. Celtic hit Dundee for six and Kyogo was an instant hero amongst the Parkhead faithful after his first start. He wrote in his column for Mainichi : “Immediately after the transfer in August, I felt the atmosphere of ‘who is this guy?’ in the team. No wonder. I entered the bench at the opening round of the league, but this day was actually ‘nice to meet you’.
“There is a quarantine of about 10 days after entering Japan and they join and play immediately. I participated in the middle of the second half but I hadn’t practpracticediced with everyone so I didn’t get a pass. I tried my best, but it didn't work.
“However, I was able to score three goals in the home debut match. It was great that the first result caught everyone’s hearts.”
A hamstring injury against St Johnstone on Boxing Day last year saw Kyogo ruled out for three months. Giorgos’ Giakoumakis stepped up in his absence however, and Celtic were able to keep themselves on top in the league.
And the former Vissel Kobe man admitted the reception he got on his return to action almost moved him to tears. He added: “At the end of the season, I was injured for three months and was left out of the battlefield. Everyone was very worried.
“When I came back, I were greeted with a happy face and when I thought I could play soccer again, I was even happier. The supporters of the return battle were also amazing. During the match, I got a standing ovation just by going out from the bench to warm up. When I took turns, I was so cheered that I remember getting goosebumps and almost crying!”
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