SPFL boss states compelling case for Kyogo to start ahead of Giakoumakis

Derek McInnes has given a compelling explanation why Kyogo Furuhashi should start today’s Glasgow Derby for Celtic. 

Two weeks ago at Hampden the striker came off the bench during the second half but never really got upto speed with the match. 

Eleven minutes into last week’s match at Ross County Kyogo headed the opening goal, only some dubious decisions from the match officials and a little rustiness prevented him from adding to that goal. 

Giorgos Giakoumakis made a telling contribution to the last two SPFL Glasgow derbies but despite being Celtic’s top scorer in 2022 McInnes believes that Kyogo will cause most damage to the Ibrox defenders. 

Looking at today’s battles, the Daily Record reports the Kimarnock boss saying: 

I think they will look to go in behind Rangers a bit more and mix the game up a wee bit. If Rangers are putting the high press on and pushing their defenders up to the halfway line, Celtic need to give them something to think about. 

The one way to sow the seed of doubt in Rangers is to run in behind. For that reason, Kyogo is a definite starter for me at No 9. He has to play with a bit of freedom, chase and get behind both centre-backs. 

Do that and Rangers have to think twice about the high press. Postecoglou could go with two up front and play Giorgos Giakoumakis with Kyogo. But that would involve a complete reshape. He doesn’t need to do that. 

The guessing game will be over at 10.45 this morning when the Celtic team is announced. 

Kyogo and Giakoumakis both seem certain to be involved although whether they are on the park at the same time is open to debate.