New signing Hayato Inamura made an unexpected but impressive first appearance in a Celtic shirt, lining up at left-back during tonight’s friendly win over Cork City.
But Inamura was thrust straight into the starting XI in Ireland and didn’t look remotely out of place, turning in a confident 45-minute display in a role he’s not regularly occupied.
A natural centre-half, Inamura adapted quickly to the wide position. From the outset he looked composed in possession, getting involved early as Celtic settled into their passing rhythm at the back.
His confidence on the ball stood out, and he made the most of his strong left foot to good effect, even stepping into the inverted role at times.
Midway through the half, the 23-year-old delivered a dangerous low cross to the near post which almost found Johnny Kenny, a sign of his attacking intent and positional awareness in the final third. He looked lively throughout the first half, and didn’t misplace a single pass during his stint on the pitch.
Inamura’s sharpness may owe something to the fact that Japan’s season is already in full swing. While there will be sterner defensive tests to come, particularly against higher-level opposition, the early signs were encouraging.
Rodgers may have indicated on Friday that Inamura wasn’t close to the senior squad picture just yet, but this early audition may well force a rethink. His showing in Cork won’t have gone unnoticed and could prompt further opportunities as pre-season unfolds.
