Celtic handed major Kyogo boost for Glasgow Derby

When the Glasgow Derby was rescheduled for February 2, one of the first issues that Celtic had was the availability of some of their top players. World Cup qualifiers are set to be played at that point of the season and as a result, several important players like Kyogo, Tom Rogic and others could have possibly missed out on the big game while representing their national sides.

In the case of Kyogo though, there appears to be an update on the situation. Although, it will be a boost and a worry at the same time as well.

Kyogo has been struggling with an injury for a while now and the Japanese national team manager has admitted that it is a difficult situation, and he might not receive a call up for the upcoming international games.

As reported by Glasgow Times, the Japan manager said about the situation:

"“Several players will not be able to convene due to injury.“We have received reports that Maya Yoshida, Kaoru Mitoma, Sei Muroya, and Kyogo Furuhashi are also difficult.“It is painful for the team that the players who have been convened each time cannot play.”"

Celtic handed Kyogo boost for Glasgow Derby

This is a boost to Kyogo’s chances of being able to feature in the upcoming Glasgow Derby. But at the same time, it is a major worry for Celtic as well.

Kyogo was forced off the pitch in their last game before the winter break. And although the seriousness of the problem was played down back then, and most expected the Japanese star to be back available by now, there have not been many updates regarding his injury since then.

Thus, one can only hope that Kyogo has not suffered a long-term problem that keeps him out for a while yet. That would be the last thing that Celtic need as they aim to put up a title challenge.

At the same time, if Kyogo is unavailable, it only increases Daizen Maeda’s chances of being called up for Japan’s World Cup qualifiers.

And finally, missing the Japan games might be a major blow for Kyogo himself as he surely would have hoped to feature in the World Cup qualifiers and help his national side.