David Turnbull has detailed what it is like playing alongside team-mate Kyogo Furuhashi as he hailed the Celtic forward for being 'one step ahead'.
Ange Postecoglou moved quickly to secure the Japan international from Vissel Kobe last summer as he began to put his own stamp on things after landing the top job at Parkhead. The 27-year-old hit the ground running and instantly installed himself as a key member of the team and a fans' favourite.
Kyogo fired 20 goals in all competitions last season - despite a campaign disrupted by injuries - and he has stated a desire to reach this total once again at a minimum and also land the Premiership top goal scorer gong. Hoops midfielder Turnbull has hailed the attacker's movement and runs behind the backlines as 'brilliant' but also revealed sometimes you can't get the ball to him as he's that one step ahead and already on the move.
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Outlining the key attributes of his Celtic pal, he said: “I played with him all of last season and I love playing alongside him.
"We had a good partnership then and against Rapid we linked up for two of the goals. He’s a joy to play with.
"It’s great to know that he will make the runs in behind and he can find me as well. I think just his movement and his runs and behind are brilliant.
"Sometimes he’s even one step ahead I feel, and you can’t get the ball through to him. If you play it early though he’s always onside and ready to be there.”
Kyogo and Turnbull linked up for two of the goals in the pre-season clash with Rapid Vienna.
He knows the importance of continuing to up his numbers of goals and assists as Postecoglou and Co bid to retain the Premiership crown they won from Rangers and make a splash in the Champions League this season.
He added: “Yeah, I just try to contribute to the team, and if that’s scoring or creating goals or whatever, it’s just about doing my best for the team and if they come along then I’m happy with that. If you look back, I think a few of my goals have been like that as well. I try to score all types of goals and whatever way they come I’m happy with them."
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