The Japanese striker was substituted in the 74th minute of last weekend’s 2-0 Premiership victory against Hibs at Easter Road and was absent as the champions defeated the Edinburgh side again yesterday, this time 3-1 in the Premier Sports League Cup at Parkhead.
His compatriot Daizen Maeda stepped in as the lead attacker, scoring twice in the first half, with Nicolas Kuhn adding a third goal after the break.
Brendan Rodgers acknowledged that he will let Kyogo decide whether to undergo surgery to resolve the long-standing issue that has troubled him for years.
GAME OVER… Kyogo Furuhashi looks devastated as he is helped off the Easter Road pitch last weekend.
The Celtic manager watched his team secure a home quarter-final against Falkirk next month and, discussing Kyogo’s situation, revealed: “He’s had this issue for a long time – even before joining Celtic.
“It’s something he dealt with in Japan, managing his shoulder – and occasionally, it becomes irritated and painful.
“He could opt for surgery, but that would likely sideline him for about four months. Ultimately, it’s his decision because, as you can see, he often plays through games without issue.
“But there are times when a fall can aggravate it, causing discomfort.
“He’s 29 years old, so he knows what’s best for him.
“But it’s something he’s been managing for much longer than his time at Celtic.
“We could’ve brought him back into the game, but I decided to give him time off to rest, and I’ll speak to him tomorrow.”
Reflecting on the impressive performance of backup striker Maeda, Rodgers told the *Scottish Sun*: “I know Daizen can play as a striker.”
HOOP, HOOP, HOORAY…Daizen Maeda acknowledges the Celtic fans after the first of his double against Hibs in the 3-1 Premier Sports League Cup win at Parkhead.
“I’ve mentioned it before – he played as a striker in the World Cup, so he should be able to do the same for Celtic when needed.
“The last time he played up front for me, he scored a hat-trick in Yokohama during a pre-season friendly in 2023, and all three goals were exceptional.
“He demonstrated that instinct with the goals we scored against Hibs, first by getting to the near post to finish, and then by making a run in behind to exploit space – it’s exactly what I look for in my strikers.
“So I know he can perform in that role, but I also recognize that his best position, or his preferred one, is out wide.”
There was also a warm reception for the £9.5 million signing, Adam Idah, who replaced Maeda at the hour mark.
It was evident that the Republic of Ireland forward, who had only played about half an hour of competitive football for Norwich City, is lacking match fitness.
However, there’s a strong possibility he could start when the Hoops face St Mirren in the Premiership in Paisley on Sunday.
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