Sport nationKyogo Furuhashi’s Frustrating Form: Is it Time for Brendan Rodgers to Drop the Japanese Striker?
Celtic FC’s impressive start to the 2024/25 Scottish Premiership campaign continued with a convincing 2-0 win against Hearts at Parkhead. However, amidst the celebration, a concerning trend has emerged – Kyogo Furuhashi’s struggles in front of goal. The Japanese striker’s frustrating form has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, leaving manager Brendan Rodgers with a crucial decision to make.
Furuhashi’s performance against Hearts was a microcosm of his season so far. Despite having a ‘big chance’ to score, he fired wide of the post in a one-on-one situation with Craig Gordon. This miss was not an isolated incident, as Furuhashi has struggled to find the back of the net throughout the campaign. His statistics paint a worrying picture:
- 20 shots taken, with only one goal scored
- Seven ‘big chances’ missed
- A conversion rate of just 14%
- Aerial duel success rate of 26%
These numbers are a far cry from Furuhashi’s impressive debut season, where he scored 14 goals in 38 league outings. However, his form has been on a downward trajectory since then, and it’s clear that something needs to change.
Rodgers has persisted with Furuhashi, hoping that the striker would regain his form. However, with the Champions League campaign about to begin, the manager cannot afford to wait any longer. The pressure is on to deliver results, and Furuhashi’s struggles are becoming a liability.
So, who can replace Furuhashi? Adam Idah, the Ireland international, is the obvious choice. Idah’s form during his loan spell at Parkhead in the second half of the 2023/24 campaign was impressive, and he offers a different set of skills to Furuhashi.
Idah’s statistics from last season are a testament to his potential:
- Eight goals in 15 appearances
- 27% conversion rate
- 64% aerial duel success rate
Idah’s superior conversion rate, goals to ‘big chances’ missed ratio, and aerial duel success rate make him an attractive option for Rodgers. He offers a physical presence, a strong work ethic, and a clinical finish – everything that Furuhashi has been lacking.
Moreover, Idah’s experience in European competitions could be invaluable for Celtic. He has played in the Champions League and Europa League, and his understanding of the game could help the team navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
Rodgers must consider dropping Furuhashi from the starting XI for Celtic’s Champions League clash against SK Slovan on Wednesday night. Idah’s potential and superior statistics make him an ideal replacement, and it’s time for the manager to make a change.
The decision to drop Furuhashi will not be easy, but it’s necessary. Celtic’s attacking prowess will be crucial in determining their success in the Champions League, and Furuhashi’s struggles are becoming a hindrance. Idah offers a fresh start, a new perspective, and a chance for Celtic to rediscover their attacking flair.
As the Champions League campaign begins, Rodgers must be bold and make the right decision. Dropping Furuhashi and starting Idah could be the key to unlocking Celtic’s attacking potential and securing a vital win against SK Slovan. The pressure is on, and the manager must deliver.
In conclusion, Kyogo Furuhashi’s frustrating form has reached a critical point. Brendan Rodgers must consider dropping the Japanese striker from the starting XI and giving Adam Idah a chance to shine. The statistics suggest that Idah is the better option, and his experience in European competitions could be invaluable for Celtic.
The decision to drop Furuhashi will not be easy, but it’s necessary. Celtic’s attacking prowess will be crucial in determining their success in the Champions League, and Furuhashi’s struggles are becoming a hindrance. Idah offers a fresh start, a new perspective, and a chance for Celtic to rediscover their attacking flair.
As the Champions League campaign begins, Rodgers must be bold and make the right decision. Dropping Furuhashi and starting Idah could be the key to unlocking Celtic’s attacking potential and securing a vital win against SK Slovan. The pressure is on, and the manager must deliver.
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