Brendan Rodgers Explains Reason Behind Kyogo Furuhashi’s Lack Of Goals

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers was quick to lavish praise on Hoops striker Kyogo Furuhashi after this afternoon’s match.

Rodgers emphasised that he values Furuhashi’s ability to play intelligently within the space rather than solely focusing on scoring goals.

He said: (Glasgow World), “I don’t need him scoring 40 goals.

“It took him a bit of time to understand that for me, it isn’t always on the last line. For me, I want him to play the space rather than the position.

“The modern Game, especially when you have man-to-man marking, it creates that possibility on the inside. If your midfielders are creating space, the obvious pass is through the middle. You need the striker to be available and not running away from the ball.

“I think he is playing the space really well. He should have scored today, but don’t blame him, he is playing really well. It’s a shame, his shoulder popped out I think. He had an awkward fall, I don’t need to risk him.”

Rodgers’ patience and understanding that goals are not everything with strikers is certainly valid.

However, Kyogo Furuhashi has been wasteful in front of goal in recent Games.

With the potential signing of Adam Idah from Norwich City, the Japanese striker might need to stay sharp and comPetitive.

While Kyogo’s link-up play has certainly improved, he needs to rediscover the killer instinct that he previously demonstrated in his first two seasons at the club.