KYOGO EXIT BAFFLES CELTIC GREAT

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FORMER Celtic goal hero Chris Sutton admits he is baffled by Celtic’s decision to sell Kyogo Furuhashi at such a crucial stage of the campaign.

The fans’ favourite moved to French outfit Rennes in a £10million switch earlier in the week in an exit that has puzzled many observers – especially as the champions are struggling for cover in the frontline position.

Kyogo, who collected 85 goals in three and a half years at the Hoops following his £4.6million arrival from J-League Vissel Kobe in July 2021, was under contract until the summer of 2027.

However, the Parkhead club have decided to part company with the 30-year-old Japanese international and now face a rush to bring in an adequate successor before Monday’s 11pm transfer deadline.

THE LAST HURRAH…Kyogo Furuhashi celebrates his second goal in the 4-1 win over Ross County in Dingwall, his 85th and final strike for the champions. 

Sutton said: “I am still struggling to get my head around the decision to sell Kyogo. In fact, I can’t remember many occasions when Celtic – or Rangers for that matter – have sold such a key part of their side in the middle of a season.

“You can go back to the likes of Josip Juranovic, but they already had Alistair Johnston in the door when he departed.

“Kyogo was allowed to go before any replacement was secured – and now the board and recruitment team simply have to deliver.

“There’s been a lot of noise around Mathias Kvistgaarden and it does look like he’d fit the bill. But it’s a bit like Celtic and Kyogo, the other club has to be willing to sell.

“Kvistgaarden won’t come cheap, either. It will be interesting to see how Celtic play it.

“Is Adam Idah going to be the main striker, with a new signing coming in to support him? Or will Brendan Rodgers want to bring in someone he feels will lead the line?

“It’s a big question.”

FRENCH CONNECTION…Kyogo Furuhashi in the colours of new club Rennes.

The one-time England international hitman, speaking to the Daily Record, continued: “Idah’s goals against Aston Villa will have done his confidence the world of good.

“He’s not exactly hit the heights of last season this term, though, and will Rodgers be able to hang his hat on him for the rest of the campaign?

“It remains to be seen. There’s youngster Daniel Cummings as well, after he got a taste of the first team at Villa Park. Rodgers also sent on Dane Murray and it looked to me like he was sending one of his subtle messages to the board again that he still needs a bit of help.

“I know that there’s been interest in Cummings, too, so it might not have been a bad idea to let him feel part of his plans for the future.

“Regardless, another striker is essential. A left-back is also on the wish list if Arsenal are going to dig their heels in over Kieran Tierney.

EURO STAR…Adam Idah celebrates the second goal in his double strike against Aston Villa.

“I wouldn’t give up hope on that one still happening as a lot can change in the final days of the window. There’s a lot of work to be done with that move. but Celtic can’t hang about.

“They are a Greg Taylor hamstring strain away from having a major problem.”

Sutton added: “Contrary to what some fans think, the league is NOT done yet. The Scottish Cup is up for grabs, as well – and that’s even before we get to the Champions League.

“Celtic will face the ultimate challenge against Bayern Munich – especially with the serious possibility of going there with no away fans.

“But there’s just as big a test for recruitment chief Paul Tisdale and his team in the last few days and hours of the transfer window.

“Right now the squad looks a little thin and they must strengthen before the window shuts.

“Signing Jota for around £6million looks a stunning piece of business, but he’ll need time to get up to speed again after 18 months of struggling for game time.”

The Portuguese winger could make his second debut for the Hoops against Motherwell at Fir Park tomorrow afternoon.

Rodgers has included Jota in his matchday squad and there could be an appearance at some stage in the action.

 

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