Oh Hyeon-Gyu’s tribute to his former Celtic teammate, Yang Hyun-jun, is not just a simple acknowledgment of his progress, but a heartfelt expression of pride and respect that underscores the strong bond between the two players. Oh, who left Celtic for Genk in the summer, has stayed closely connected with Yang since their time together in Glasgow. The two players shared more than just a locker room; they lived together, supporting each other through the highs and lows of their time at Celtic. Oh’s words carry a personal touch, as he has witnessed firsthand the challenges Yang faced during his early days at Celtic and the growth he has undergone since then.

Yang’s journey at Celtic has been anything but straightforward. When he first arrived, the expectations were high, and the competition fierce. Transitioning to a new club, particularly one with the stature of Celtic, is never easy. The weight of the jersey, the intense scrutiny, and the desire to perform at the highest level can often overwhelm even the most talented of players. Yang faced these challenges head-on, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing. There were times when it seemed like his place in the team was uncertain, and there were certainly moments when he struggled to adapt to the demands of Scottish football. But instead of being discouraged, Yang chose to use these struggles as motivation to improve, to push himself harder, and to prove to both his teammates and the fans that he belonged at Celtic.

This resilience and determination have been key to his recent transformation. Oh, in his tribute, highlighted Yang’s journey, saying, “I’m proud. I lived with Hyunjun Yang at Celtic. I know how hard it has been. It won’t be easy. However, he overcame all this and showed competitiveness. I’m very proud. I really want to say to Hyunjun, you’re doing a good job.” These words are not just a reflection of Yang’s on-the-pitch abilities, but also of his character. Oh’s tribute is filled with admiration, not only for Yang’s talent but also for his unwavering determination to succeed, despite the obstacles he faced. The challenges Yang experienced—whether adjusting to a new country, team, or style of play—could have easily derailed his Celtic career. But instead, he dug deep, showing the kind of grit and work ethic that are often the hallmark of the best players.

Oh’s tribute is especially significant because of the close relationship the two players shared. Living together during their time at Celtic, they would have spent a lot of time away from the football field, providing mutual support and learning from each other. Oh’s admiration for Yang’s determination is evident, and it’s clear that he has witnessed firsthand the hard work that has gone into Yang’s recent surge in form. The fact that Oh has stayed connected with Celtic and kept track of Yang’s progress speaks volumes about the bond between the two players, and it’s a reminder that football is about more than just what happens on the pitch—it’s about the relationships, support systems, and personal growth that players go through.

In recent months, Yang has truly started to show his potential. His performances have become more consistent, and his contribution to the team has been undeniable. One of the standout moments of his season came when he scored a brilliant brace against St. Mirren at the SMISA Stadium last month. Coming off the bench, Yang made an immediate impact, scoring two goals that helped Celtic secure a vital victory. That match was a defining moment for Yang, one that showcased not just his talent, but his ability to make an impact when called upon, something that is invaluable to any manager. His performance in that game was a clear indication that he had turned a corner, and fans began to see the kind of player Celtic had been hoping for when they brought him in.

What’s more impressive is the fact that Yang has added consistency to his game. In his early days at Celtic, he was undoubtedly raw, with flashes of brilliance mixed with moments of inconsistency. However, his recent performances have shown that he is now capable of producing at a high level on a more regular basis. He is becoming a more complete player, one who is contributing not just in moments of brilliance, but also in a steady, dependable way. This is exactly the kind of development Celtic fans were hoping for, and it’s clear that Yang has worked tirelessly to make this progress. His ability to contribute directly to Celtic’s success is now becoming evident, and he is increasingly looking like a player who could play a major role in the club’s future.

Brendan Rodgers, too, has noticed Yang’s development. The Celtic manager has praised the winger for his hard work behind the scenes, acknowledging that it is not just his ability on the pitch, but his willingness to put in the extra effort that has led to his recent improvements. Rodgers has spoken about Yang’s commitment to training and his determination to make the most of his opportunities. This behind-the-scenes work, often overlooked by fans, is just as important as what happens on the field. Yang’s dedication to improving his game, working on his weaknesses, and developing his consistency has been a key part of his growth at Celtic. It’s also an indication of the kind of mentality that Rodgers values in his players—a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a desire to be better every day.

For Celtic fans, seeing a former player like Oh Hyeon-Gyu offering such a personal and genuine tribute to Yang is incredibly heartening. It highlights the strong sense of camaraderie and respect within the squad, and it reinforces the idea that the players at Celtic are not just teammates—they are a close-knit group that looks out for one another, both on and off the field. Oh’s words remind us that the growth and development of a player are not just the result of talent alone, but also the result of the relationships and support systems that are built over time. It’s also a reminder that football is a game of ups and downs, and players like Yang, who face setbacks but continue to work hard, can ultimately find success if they stay focused and dedicated.

Looking ahead, Yang’s journey is far from over. While he has shown great progress, the road ahead will undoubtedly present more challenges. But with the backing of his former teammates, the support of Brendan Rodgers, and his own determination, Yang is in a strong position to continue his development. His story is one of perseverance, hard work, and the ability to overcome adversity, and it is one that will inspire many young players who face similar challenges. Celtic fans will be hoping that this is just the beginning for Yang, and that he will continue to build on his recent performances to become a key player for the club. His future at Celtic looks bright, and with continued effort and growth, there’s no telling just how far he can go.