Rennes manager Habib Beye has declared Kyogo Furuhashi an “integral part” of his plans, even as the former Celtic star continues to struggle for regular game time in France.
Kyogo, who joined the Ligue 1 side from Celtic in a £10 million deal in January, has found minutes hard to come by since Beye took over the reins. The Japanese forward hasn’t started a league game since February 2, fuelling speculation over a potential summer exit from Roazhon Park.
Despite the lack of starts, Beye insists Kyogo remains a valued member of the squad.
“Even if he doesn’t get the minutes he would like, he is an integral part of my squad,” the Rennes boss said ahead of Sunday’s clash with Le Havre. “Kyogo’s lack of playing time doesn’t mean he doesn’t meet my expectations, otherwise he wouldn’t be in the squad and he wouldn’t come on as a sub.”
“He’s a quality player and he will bring something to the team, I’m convinced of that.” [SunSport]
The 29-year-old’s switch from Celtic to Rennes was met with excitement in Brittany, but so far, the move hasn’t yielded the impact many expected. He’s made a handful of substitute appearances since his arrival, but hasn’t managed to open his goalscoring account for the club.
Kyogo will be hoping to get back on the pitch when Rennes take on Le Havre at 16:15 UK time today after he sat out the last match, and only played a single minute in the game before.
With his future already the subject of discussion, a strong end to the campaign could be vital in determining his long-term prospects in France or even put himself in the shop window.
