As the anticipation builds for tomorrow’s Premier Sports Cup Final showdown at Hampden Park, former Rangers captain Barry Ferguson has singled out Kyogo Furuhashi as the primary danger for the Ibrox side.
With silverware and Glasgow bragging rights on the line, Ferguson believes that Celtic’s Japanese striker could prove decisive once again.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, Ferguson praised Kyogo’s development since his arrival at Celtic in 2021. While the forward’s blistering movement and work rate have always been evident, Ferguson noted how the 28-year-old has refined his all-around game over the past few seasons.
Ferguson referenced Kyogo’s recent goal in Celtic’s 3-0 win over Hibernian as a prime example of his quality and composure. The striker’s ability to combine movement, precision, and a clinical finish makes him a constant threat.
He said: “He’s been a thorn in the Rangers side for a long time. Paul, we were actually speaking before we came on air; I think he’s improved. I think he’s become a better player over the last couple of years since he’s been here.
“His touch, his movement, his work rate was always there. There was no question of that, but I think as he’s maturing, he’s definitely getting better. And I thought his goal at the weekend against Hibs was just a bit of class, if I’m being brutally honest.
“It’s hard for me to say that right enough, but it was an unbelievable touch. And then what gets me is the composure when he gets into the area, and then just dinks it over. Whoever is playing at centre back, they need to be wary of him.
“They need to make sure that if he’s moving all the time, there’s constant communication because he’s always on the move. I think he’s a top player.”
Brendan Rodgers boasts a remarkable record in the Premier Sports Cup, having suffered just one defeat in the competition during his managerial tenure at Celtic. Additionally, his dominance in derbies is well-documented, with only one loss in 19 encounters against Rangers.
Kyogo Furuhashi’s record in finals and against Rangers speaks volumes. His brace in the 2022 Premier Sports Cup Final against the Ibrox side was a masterclass in movement and finishing, and he remains Celtic’s go-to player for big occasions. With eight goals in 15 appearances against Rangers, the stage is set for Kyogo to once again torment the Ibrox backline.
