There’s always space for a new hero whenever Celtic play the Rangers. And one new signing has been backed to make an impact against Michael Beale’s side this weekend. A lot is riding on the result of this game, and it could potentially spell the end of the the title race if the Hoops walk out victors.
There are plenty of potential goal scorers in the Hoops’ squad. But former Celtic star, Ki Sung-yueng, reckons that Oh Hyeon-gyu could potentially be a game changer in the upcoming Glasgow Derby at Parkhead.
Oh has impressed since signing in the January transfer window from Suwon Samsung Bluewings in a deal believed to be around £2.5 million. Three goals so far is a very decent return, especially when you consider that he mostly features as a second half substitute.
As reported by The Herald, Ki said:
"“If Oh does well in a game like the Old Firm, he will become a hero. If you don’t you have to live with the burden of failure.“It’s the toughest derby in the world and the fans create the most unbelievable atmosphere. It’s beyond our imagination.“I think if Celtic win this game, it will have almost guaranteed them the title.“Even if Oh enters the game as a substitute in the second half, he will still get chances because he is physical enough to make an impression in a game like this.“I remember my first Old Firm game. I got a warning from the referee after just three minutes!“There will be 60,000 Celtic fans for this game and it wouldn’t surprise me if they are celebrating Oh’s fourth Celtic goal during the game.”"
Oh backed to make an impact for Celtic in the upcoming Glasgow Derby
Ki appears to believe that the derby will suit Oh’s physical style of play. He also remembers his own debut derby match only too well. It was the first of ten derbies in his time at Parkhead from 2010 before moving in a £6 million deal in 2012 to then English Premier League side Swansea City.
Ki is now 34 and playing for FC Seoul but with Celtic getting plenty of media coverage in South Korea and Oh now getting international appearances, he will be aware of how well the player has settled since his move.
Let’s see how Oh does against the Rangers. He has certainly made an impression with his latest appearances and seems to be finding his feet at Parkhead. If he is able to make an impact in the Glasgow Derby, it would be a star making performance though and give the South Korean striker the world of confidence moving forward.