Kyogo Furuhashi is hoping to have a greater impact on the Celtic side in his second season at the club and is vowing to be even better. 

The Japanese international made a huge impression on Celtic supporters last season when he bagged a hat-trick in his first league start for the Hoops against Dundee at Celtic Park.

A hamstring injury just before the turn of the year meant that Kyogo missed a huge chunk of the second part of the campaign with Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis filling the gap.

Even with the lesser number of games, the 27-year old still played a crucial role and scored a very handsome 20 goals in 33 appearances.

The striker looked very sharp for pre-season on Saturday with the Hoops drawing 3-3 with Rapid Vienna who are a good bit ahead of schedule with their preparations for the new campaign.

He combined brilliantly well with midfielder David Turnbull for two of the Celts three goals scoring a lovely goal and assisting from the wide area.

The Champions League will be a huge opportunity for Kyogo to shine and he will also be hoping for a place in Japan’s world cup squad this year.

“We have a good team and good fans and that’s why we can do better than last season,” said Kyogo speaking to [The Scottish Sun].

“Personally, I’d like to get good numbers. I want to score a minimum of 20 goals this season.”

Competition in the forward position is strong between Kyogo and Giakoumakis which will bring the best out in both players.

“It would be nice to be the top scorer in the league.

“We have good players, we are working hard and pushing and stimulating each other on the pitch.

“There is still a lot to improve and that is why we are training hard.

“The coaches prepare us well with a good training programme.

“I still have personal challenges to overcome — and that is why I am doing extra.”

A fully fit Kyogo over the course of the forthcoming campaign is an exciting prospect and one which will strike fear into opposition players.