Kyogo was one of Celtic’s most prolific strikers in recent times, but it’s taken him eight months to find the back of the net after his Celtic exit.
The Japanese striker, who departed Parkhead in January for a £10million move to Rennes, endured a frustrating spell in France and failed to make a significant impact in Ligue 1. His return to Britain this summer saw him reunited with former Celtic assistant Chris Davies and compatriot Tomoki Iwata at St Andrew’s.
Kyogo made a bright start in the Championship against Ipswich at the weekend, and in just his second appearance for Birmingham, he’s found the net. The goal came in the Carabao Cup, just five minutes into the match, and was as straightforward as they come – a simple tap-in into an empty net.
It’s a welcome moment for the 30-year-old, whose sharp movement and instinctive finishing were a hallmark of his three-and-a-half years in Glasgow, where he became a fan favourite and netted 85 goals in 165 games.
Birmingham will be hoping this early strike helps Kyogo settle quickly and rediscover the prolific form that made him one of Celtic’s most important players under Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers.
He’s been impressing with his movement, with Chris Davies hinting he’s too good for his teammates.
“We analyse every minute of every game and try to highlight things, and he does make very, very good runs and a lot of them. There are times where he’s not been seen or found, but I want him to continue to run and continue to play with that energy. You can see that he’s quick. There was one where he pressed the goalkeeper and you could see his change of pace.
Soccer Football – Carabao Cup – Second Round – Birmingham City v Fulham – St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park, Birmingham, Britain – August 27, 2024 Birmingham City manager Chris Davies after the match Action Images via Reuters/Craig Brough
“It is all still new for Kyogo coming into a new country, a new league and a new team, but you could see quite clearly what qualities he does have with the movement and the speed, and he’s a very good finisher, although we haven’t created too many chances for him in pre-season.
“We knew he would be sharp when he first came back and then he picked up a little niggle. He picked up some good minutes and I thought he was excellent.”
