Kyogo Furuhashi has spoken out about the bond that he has formed with the Celtic support.
Back in August 2021 a limited crowd of 21,000 was allowed to watch the SPFL match against Dundee as Ange Postecoglou’s side began to take shape.
Liel Abada and Kyogo had given fans some hope for better times ahead with the Japanese striker finding the net three times and revelling in the support and backing that he received.
Before Christmas a double against Hibs delivered the League Cup as the first trophy under Postecoglou was delivered.
Injury soon brought his season to a halt but with 34 goals in the Treble winning season the bond between striker and fans has grown stronger and stronger.
From children to elderly people, a lot of people are cheering and supporting us.
Once I step outside of the house and go into the city, many people talk to me, and at the stadium, all the supporters are cheering us from the bottom of their hearts.
And because they are there, we can compete because I want to see their smiles. I work hard to get the win and they are very important to me
Five goals from Kyogo in the Glasgow Derby since the turn of the year ensured that Celtic delivered the treble despite the hyped arrival of Micky Beale across the city.
Brendan Rodgers instantly recognised the contribution and value of Kyogo with a new contract agreed, next Wednesday away to Yokohama F Marinos Celtic fans will get their first look at how Kyogo fits in to the plans of the ‘new’ manager.
A gem of a player and, by the sounds of it, a gem of a person.