A kickabout with Paddington Bear wasn’t part of his pre-season plans but the furry encounter has got Kyogo roaring ahead of the new season.
The Celtic ace is back in business with four goals in two pre-season games so far following a hat trick against Queen’s Park on Wednesday on the back of his penalty at Ayr United. Kyogo admitted there’s no secret to him hitting the ground running – but he does feel fit and ready to fire after his happy homecoming over the summer. The 29-year-old headed back to Japan for a few weeks to visit family and friends – and take in a few games at his old clubs.
Kyogo got a hero’s welcome at Kobe Vissel and was greeted by a sea of green and white when he pitched up at FC Gifu – even got to take part in a bizarre kick-off ceremony alongside a Paddington mascot. The frontman said: “It was a nice break. I went back to Japan and it was good to see some family and friends. It was a good opportunity to visit some familiar places and there was a great reception.
“I was part of the kick-off ceremony at FC Gifu – with Paddington! I didn’t know what was happening beforehand. I just came out and they told me what was going on. It was interesting! I’ve faced a few challenges but that was a new one. It was nice to see those places and people again.”
It’s not just Paddington who pitched up in the UK from the other side of the world and who was quickly taken into the hearts of the locals. Kyogo has made a similar journey to become a hero to Parkhead fans.
Even at the City Stadium the other night, where there was no space to accommodate Hoops fans, there was a band hanging around outside chanting his name. The attacker blushed at the attention but relished the chance to get the shooting boots back on.
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