BREAKING: Celtic striker Kyogo MISSING.......Read more

Celtic striker Kyogo MISSING from training amid fresh fears over shoulder injury

Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi has sparked fresh injury concerns after missing the open portion of training ahead of the club’s upcoming fixtures. The Japanese talisman is dealing with a recurring shoulder issue, which was aggravated during Celtic’s recent 2-0 victory over Hibernian. Manager Brendan Rodgers revealed that Kyogo’s shoulder had “popped out” during the match. Although the joint was reset, there are concerns about the injury’s long-term impact, and Rodgers is cautious about risking his star forward too soon.

Rodgers has acknowledged the delicate situation, noting that Kyogo’s awkward fall in the game against Hibs led to the dislocation. After the shoulder was reset by medical staff, Kyogo experienced lingering soreness, raising questions about his availability for upcoming games. While the injury isn’t new for the forward, Rodgers remains wary of pushing him back onto the pitch before he’s fully recovered.

“We don’t need to risk him,” Rodgers stated last week when discussing the situation. He emphasized that while the shoulder was put back in place, Kyogo’s discomfort was significant enough to warrant caution. Rodgers will prioritize ensuring the injury is fully healed before allowing his star player to return to action.

Adding to Celtic’s injury woes, another key player, Mikey Johnston, was also absent from the open portion of the session, further intensifying concerns. Johnston has had his own share of fitness issues in recent times, and his absence only deepens the uncertainty surrounding the squad’s overall health.

Despite Kyogo’s absence from training, Celtic has been boosted by the recent acquisition of Republic of Ireland striker Adam Idah. The 23-year-old forward recently completed a £9.5 million move from Norwich City following a successful loan spell with the Hoops last season. Idah is determined to establish himself as more than just a backup option, despite Kyogo’s impressive track record.

During his loan spell last season, Idah made a strong impact, scoring nine goals in 19 appearances, including a memorable winner in the Scottish Cup final against Rangers. His performances earned him a permanent move to Celtic, and the young striker is eager to fight for a starting role.

Idah, who is aware of Kyogo’s prominence in the squad, is prepared to compete for the top striker position. When asked about his ambitions at the club, Idah confidently expressed his intention to push for a starting spot. “Yes, of course,” Idah said when asked if he sees himself as the main striker. “The majority of players don’t go to a club to think, ‘I’m just going to sit there’. I want to do the best for myself, but regardless of if I start or if I’m on the bench, I’ll always give it my all.”

Rodgers will welcome the competition, knowing that having multiple reliable options up front will only strengthen the team as they navigate a busy fixture schedule. The arrival of Idah could be timely for Celtic, particularly if Kyogo’s shoulder injury proves to be more severe than initially thought.

Celtic fans will be hoping that Kyogo’s absence from training is precautionary rather than a sign of a prolonged spell on the sidelines. The Japanese forward has been instrumental in Celtic’s success since joining the club, and his potential unavailability could disrupt Rodgers’ plans for the coming weeks.

The uncertainty surrounding Kyogo’s injury comes at a crucial point in Celtic’s season as they look to build on their positive start in both the domestic league and European competitions. With the addition of Adam Idah, Celtic’s attacking options have been bolstered, but the question remains whether the Irish striker can fill the void if Kyogo is forced to miss time.

As the team prepares for upcoming matches, Rodgers and his coaching staff will closely monitor Kyogo’s condition, hoping for a swift recovery. In the meantime, Idah will be eager to seize any opportunities that come his way, determined to prove his worth to both his manager and the Celtic faithful.

Rodgers’ cautious approach suggests that Celtic will not rush Kyogo back into action until they are fully convinced of his readiness. Whether or not that means Idah will take on a more prominent role in the near future remains to be seen, but the young striker is ready to step up when called upon.