For a player who almost left Celtic in January, Yang Hyun-jun has made himself invaluable to the Scottish champions. Seemingly close to leaving for Birmingham City at the start of the year, the South Korean winger remained at Celtic as Martin O'Neill returned for his second spell in charge, and contributed vital goals as a league and cup double was secured. It was no surprise, then, that the 24-year-old agreed new terms in the summer and he has started this season as he finished the last.
However, Yang will miss Celtic's next four games while participating in the Asian Games. He will, on this evidence, be missed. His Saturday evening winner at St Mirren was his second goal this season, after scoring his first in Wednesday's win over Aberdeen.
Celtic five clear after coming from behind at St Mirren Winger Yang signs new Celtic deal until 2030 Captain Callum McGregor is in no doubt of Yang's importance. "He is a really important part of the team," the captain told Sky Sports after the 2-1 win in Paisley. "He's a big player to miss, but obviously we wish him the best." Yang's stats are impressive.
Two goals and an assist in seven games this season reflect his growing influence in games. Last term, he scored 10 goals and provided three assists. Width is a critical element to how Celtic are playing this season, and Yang would likely be the automatic choice on the left were it not for his international commitments.
South Korea will be up against Qatar and Saudi Arabia in Japan later this month. Back in Scotland, Celtic travel to face St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership before a trip to Rangers in the League Cup quarter-finals, a home Europa League game with Ferencvaros, then a home league Old Firm derby. Sebastian Tounekti replaced Yang in Paisley and missed an excellent chance from an almost identical situation as Yang's goal.
The Tunisia international did net and provide an assist in Celtic's 4-0 cup win at Dundee United earlier this season, having eight goal involvements last term. Bringing one international on for another illustrates the strength in Celtic's squad and softens the blow of losing Yang for the rest of the month. But it seems there will be a drop off.
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