Celtic Football Club has been actively seeking to strengthen their squad this summer, particularly in the winger position. With the anticipated arrival of Haissem Hassan, the team appears to be addressing this need. However, one player who has already made a significant impact at the club is South Korean international Hyunjun Yang.
Shaun Maloney, the assistant manager of Celtic, recently spoke highly of Yang, emphasizing his evolution over the past year. Once considered a surplus player, Yang was nearly transferred to Birmingham City in the English Championship last summer, but the deal fell through at the last minute due to complications at the board level within Celtic.
Since Martin O’Neill took over as interim manager last October following Brendan Rodgers' resignation, Yang has experienced a resurgence in form. Under O’Neill’s guidance, he has delivered several impressive performances, culminating in a new contract that reflects his growing importance to the squad.
Maloney noted, "Yang kind of just took that right-wing position by the scruff of the neck last year." His determination to become a key player has not gone unnoticed. Maloney remarked on Yang's transformation, stating, "I think he’s always been that sort of quite good player, impact player at the club. But last year, he went, ‘I want to be an important player.’" This newfound confidence has allowed Yang to flourish on the pitch.
While the signing of Hassan is viewed as a significant addition, Maloney insists that Yang will continue to play a crucial role in the team's attacking strategy, capable of performing on both flanks. He explained the need for a left-sided player to diversify their attacking options, which highlights Yang's versatility.
Reflecting on Yang's development, Maloney commented on their early interactions, stating, "We trained some really basic things, but he just showed some really good one-on-one talent off the left." This foundational work has allowed Yang to gain the trust of both the coaching staff and his teammates.
Maloney praised Yang's work ethic, comparing him to former Celtic star Daizen Maeda, who is now making waves in the Premier League with Ipswich Town. He remarked, "He’s a really big player. And he’s so good for the team. I think his teammates love him for the work rate." This level of dedication has earned Yang recognition among supporters and staff alike.
Maloney further elaborated on Yang's potential, stating, "Daizen was about as good an attacking player as I’ve seen without the ball. Yang is trying desperately to get to those levels." This commitment to improving his game is indicative of Yang's character and ambition.
As the new season approaches, Yang's role within the team becomes increasingly vital. O’Neill's philosophy encourages wingers to take on defenders in one-on-one situations, instilling confidence in players like Yang to take risks. Maloney emphasized this approach, saying, "You aren’t going to beat a full-back in a one v one every time. What those players need is the support and confidence from the manager that makes them go and try again the next time."
With Yang's growing influence and the support of the coaching staff, he is poised to be a key figure in Celtic's campaign this season. The club's focus on enhancing their attacking options, coupled with Yang's determination, suggests an exciting year ahead for both the player and the team.
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