Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu has addressed his decision to call up Kyogo Furuhashi for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, despite the striker’s lack of game time since his January move to Rennes.

Kyogo has played just three times for the Ligue 1 side, making only one start and failing to register a goal or assist in 92 minutes of football. Nevertheless, Moriyasu remains confident in the the former Celtic striker’s ability.

Kyogo’s Lack of Minutes Not a Concern

Many Celtic fans have been keeping an eye on Kyogo’s situation in France, with concerns over his limited opportunities at Rennes. However, Moriyasu has reassured supporters that he remains in good shape. He said: (Record Sport),”As for Kyogo, we have confirmed that he is training well, even though his opportunities to play have decreased since his transfer.”

While some may question his inclusion, Moriyasu has shown how he does not rate the Scottish Premiership highly, with Kyogo often overlooked while at Celtic. Yet, at the first opportunity to pick him following his move to France, he has done so despite the forward struggling for game time and minutes since his move.

Hatate and Maeda Also Called Up

Alongside Kyogo, Celtic duo Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda have also been selected for Japan. Hatate has started week in, week out for the Hoops, and his inclusion comes as no surprise, with the playmaker often selected, unlike Kyogo. Meanwhile, Maeda’s red-hot form has made him impossible to ignore, with the versatile forward thriving as Celtic’s main striker since Kyogo’s departure.

Maeda’s Goalscoring Form Recognised

Since moving into a central role, Maeda has been on fire for Celtic, scoring in four consecutive games. Moriyasu has taken notice of the 27-year-old’s performances, highlighting the strength of his attacking options:

“In terms of options for our preparations, Daizen Maeda and Keito Nakamura are both forwards on their own teams and have shown good performances, so I think we can fight to win with this member with various options.”

For Celtic fans, Maeda’s form has been a major positive in recent weeks, and his Japan call-up is further recognition of his impressive performances.

A Chance for Kyogo to Regain Form?

While Maeda is flying, Kyogo will be hoping to use the international break as a chance to rediscover his best form. Game time with Japan could provide a much-needed confidence boost, and Celtic fans will be watching closely to see how he performs.

Moriyasu’s decision to call up Kyogo, considering his struggles at Rennes, may have raised eyebrows, but there’s no doubt how important Hatate and Maeda will be for the Hoops in the rest of the season in looking to secure a domestic treble.