Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou is unlikely to take ‘any risks’ with the fitness of striker Kyogo Furuhashi, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 27-year-old was forced to start the Hoops’ midweek Champions League encounter against Real Madrid from the bench after injuring his shoulder against Rangers last weekend.

What is the latest news involving Kyogo?

Kyogo had to be replaced by Georgios Giakoumakis after just five minutes when Celtic ran out 4-0 victors in the first Old Firm derby on Saturday.

And the two attacker’s roles were reversed when Madrid visited Parkhead on Tuesday evening, with the Japan international coming on for Giakoumakis just after the 70-minute mark.

However, despite Kyogo playing a sizeable chunk of Celtic’s opening Champions League encounter, he may not be rushed back into the starting lineup.

The diminutive star missed 30 games altogether for the reigning Scottish champions last season through a knee problem and hamstring injury, and Postecoglou could be cautious about rushing his star performer back too soon.

What has O’Rourke said about Kyogo?

In an interview with GiveMeSport, O’Rourke said: “It'll be interesting, he obviously had that early shoulder injury against Rangers, which forced him off in the opening minute or so, and obviously wasn't deemed fit enough to face Real Madrid from the start.

“I'm sure Ange Postecoglou will be careful with Kyogo, he won't want any serious injury to him because he missed quite a large chunk of last season with a hamstring injury, so he won't be taking any risks with him because we know how important Kyogo is for Celtic.

“He’s made a flying start to the season domestically, so he'll be hoping to keep his best players fit, and Kyogo definitely comes into that category.”

How good is Kyogo?

Kyogo, who earns £18,000-per-week, settled into life at Celtic with ease last season, registering 20 goals and five assists in 33 appearances, firing the Glasgow giants to the league title and League Cup glory.

Postecoglou raved about the versatile ace’s ability, labelling him an ‘intelligent football’ after he soon established himself as a firm fan’s favourite.

"Kyogo is a quality finisher, an intelligent footballer and a handful for other teams,” said the Greek-Australian tactician. “He is really valued at this club.”

And the talented forward has started the current campaign in a similarly impressive fashion, finding the back of the net on six occasions in his opening seven outings in all competitions.

Celtic host Livingston this afternoon in the Scottish Premiership, but it remains to be seen if Postecoglou risks Kyogo from the off.