Ange Postecoglou is eager to welcome Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu to Glasgow following the 54 year old’s latest snub of Celtic striker Kyogo.
The Japanese talisman was not included in the Japan squad for the World Cup despite showing terrific form heading into it. Further, Kyogo has racked up 13 goals in all competitions since then yet was still not picked by Moriyasu for the March internationals.
Moriyasu previously suggested the strength of the Scottish league was behind his reasoning for failing to pick both Kyogo and Reo Hatate yet he still, rather hypocritically, called up Daizen Maeda.
The 54 year old and his coaching staff are soon set to head across Europe between now and the summer to examine Japanese assets and it is almost certain Glasgow will be one of their destinations.
Postecoglou has stated his eagerness to meet with Moriyasu following the snub (Daily Record):
“Haijime has been here before to visit us and we have had other staff from the Japan national team, too. There have been other coaches visit and I believe Jurgen Klinsmann is planning a trip. There are no issues.”
“I know Hajime very well from my time over there and I would be happy to see him. We are a very welcoming club for everyone.”
It would be intriguing to see the conversations had by both Postecoglou and Moriyasu because, according to the Australian, Kyogo has been left frustrated at his lack of involvement with his nation:
“Kyogo is disappointed, no doubt about that. He wants to be part of the Japan national team and feels he can make an impact”
“At the same time, he uses that as motivation. He doesn’t let himself get down or allow his mood to change because of that.”
“He wants to perform for Celtic, score goals and excite our supporters. He feels if he does this it’s his best chance of getting back in.”
Kyogo is undoubtedly correct that all he can do in order to improve his national team prospects is to keep on doing what he’s best at – scoring goals and arousing the Celtic fans.
As long as he carries on doing this, the Japanese will have the backing of the Hoops faithful and hopefully for him, Hajime Moriyasu.
