In the first half of the season, even if Kyogo was declared only 50% fit, or in other words, still injured but able to play through the pain barrier as much as his body will physically let him, he would be starting at Ibrox for us.
Just like was the case in the League Cup Final in December. Kyogo was practically playing on one leg as Ange Postecoglou stated, but he was so important, even in that state, he had to start, and the decision was justified as Kyogo won the game with two incredible goals and clinched the league cup for us.
However, times have changed, in the fact that we now far better striking options to fall back on.
One of these options is big Greek striker Giorgos Giakoumakis. The big man is in fantastic form, scoring a hat-trick against Dundee yesterday, just like the last time he played against them. last month. He also scored another two against Dundee Utd in the game before, away from home in the Scottish Cup.
He is in scintillating form.
If Kyogo is declared fully fit for Ibrox on April 3rd, which is what the rumours are saying is going to be the case, with the man himself saying to a Japanese outlet he is ‘feeling good’ and ‘close to returning’, then Ange Postecoglou will have one hell of a decision on his hands.
In my view, this will split fans right down the middlle.
Kyogo is arguable our best player, never mind our best striker. He has been a sensation since arriving from Japan in the summer. But he has been out injured for several months, and the team are currently playing very well, with Giakoumakis a huge part of that, scoring a lot of goals.
Can Ange afford to drop him to bring in Kyogo?
In my opinion, no. Unless he picks up a knock on international duty with Greece, I think he has to start.
If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.
Kyogo could be a great option coming off the bench for the last half hour.
But, I trust Ange’s judgement, and if he feels Kyogo has to start, then I will accept and support his decision.
Giakoumakis however, will be desperate to start, and he will feel he has absolutely done enough in recent times to secure his spot in the starting line up.
It will be extremely interesting to see how this plays out.
