Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi has played down down any lingering concerns over his fitness following defeat to St Mirren.
The 27-year-old was forced off early in the Hoops’ 4-0 thrashing of rivals Rangers on derby day, where he was also captured falling as he emerged at full time during the post-match on-pitch celebrations. During his Champions League debut, which limited him to a brief cameo against the European champions Real Madrid during the group stage opener.
Since the knock he has started against both Shakhtar Donesk and Stephen Robinson's side, but has not added to his six-goal tally so far this term leading to some punters to raise concerns over his fitness levels heading into the international break. However, the forward will join his Celtic teammates Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate for Japan's games against the USA and Ecuador in Germany as they prepare for the World Cup in Qatar.
Writing in his column for Japanese outlet Mainichi he insists he is fully fit and wants to get back on the scoresheet for the Scottish champions. He said: I started my second season with Celtic.
"I practiced with everyone from the pre-season camp, but the team has been working under manager Ange Postecoglou since last season. Personally, I have become able to understand English a little more, and I am able to speak on my own.
"Looking at the results, we scored a lot of goals. I was injured in the league match (with Rangers), and I caused everyone to worry, but now there is no problem at all. I am full of feelings that I want to give back with more goals and victories.
"The team will challenge the European Champions League for the first time in five years. Their first league match was on the 6th, welcoming champions Real Madrid to the home ground, Celtic Park.
"The (Champions League) anthem was played when we entered, and it was a great cheer. I got goosebumps at the atmosphere that the supporters created with more power and enthusiasm than usual. With that behind you t here is a sense of being the best in the world."
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