Celtic’s wing problems have been apparent all season, though they look like they may be a thing of the past thanks to THIS player.
In a match where seven different scorers contributed on the night, TCW’s Star Man for Celtic’s demolition of Dundee only managed one assist, yet his overall performance left spectators dazzled at his raw ability. Of course, the player we are talking about is none other than Yang Hyun-jun, a summer signing from K-League outfit Gangwon FC.
The South Korean international has been in and out of the team this campaign, due to both varying levels of form and injuries respectively. After an impressive second-half cameo against Motherwell last Sunday, Brendan Rodgers entrusted the talented winger from the off against Dundee at Celtic Park.
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This turned out to be a stroke of genius, as Yang electrified proceedings on a rainy Wednesday night under the floodlights. He set the tone early, taking on Celtic transfer target Owen Beck, in turn getting the Welsh left-back on an early booking due to a pull back on the edge of the box. That would lead to Matt O’Riley’s cross into the box, which Cameron Carter-Vickers was only too happy to head home.
Beck – a highly rated prospect from Liverpool – had a nightmare trying to keep up with Yang, who terrorised him for the duration of the time he was on the park. Unorthodox, unpredictable and exciting all at the same time, he regularly got spectators off their seat, as every time he got the ball it looked like something was going to happen. His assist – a pass to Daniel Kelly for his first-ever Celtic goal – was a well-deserved goal contribution for Yang, though he was involved in the build-up to Adam Idah’s well-taken header due to passing to the impressive Alistair Johnston, who also had a good game on the same side as the winger.
Of course, consistency is key for Yang’s own personal development, though this was a massive step in the right direction for a player who has taken a lot of flak at points this season. After pulling up with cramp, Yang was replaced by Luis Palma with 15 minutes to go. What happened next was a lovely show of respect from the support to the player, as he walked half the length of the pitch to soak up the adulation of those present at the game. This felt like a breakout moment for the 21-year-old and one that he can work with going forward.
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With Nicolas Kuhn having to make do with a place on the bench at the moment, it looks as if Yang has the yellow jersey at the moment concerning that right-wing berth. If he can keep this form up from now until the end of the season, then it will set him in good stead for the years ahead as a first-team player at the club. With time on his side and plenty of talent, who knows what level Yang can get to, as his career is only really just beginning.
All of this is why Yang was The Celtic Way’s Star Man against Dundee at Celtic Park last night. What a way to announce yourself as a fully-fledged Celtic player, and long may that good form continue.
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