Celtic hero ‘confounds medical expectations’ to delight supporters

Celtic have had rotten luck with injuries but, for the last few weeks, Brendan Rodgers has managed to call upon the majority of his big hitters in the squad.

Cameron Carter-Vickers is playing regularly, Reo Hatate is showing class after a return from injury and captain Callum McGregor is finally back in the starting eleven.

The only major worry right now is the status of winger Daizen Maeda after he injured his hamstring in training earlier this month.

Rodgers was initially not optimistic he would play again this season which served as a big blow to the squad ahead of this final title race stretch.

However, reports today are much more pleasing after what seems like a remarkable recovery from the Japanese star.

The latest on Daizen Maeda’s Celtic status

The Scottish Daily Mail reports Maeda has ‘confounded medical expectations’ to now return to light training after a series of scans since picking up the injury.

It’s stated that he is unlikely to feature in the squad for this weekend’s trip to Dundee but that he should be fit enough to join in group training from next week.

That means he could be available for the massive derby against Rangers at Celtic Park on May 11th.

Daizen Maeda’s 2023/24 season so far

Maeda has scored nine goals and assisted three times from 32 appearances this season but that doesn’t tell the whole story of his contribution to Celtic.

His running and energy can be a potent force in that attacking line, potentially creating opportunities and forcing mistakes from opposition defenders.

That was never more apparent than in the recent derby draw against Rangers when he chased down James Tavernier and netted the opening goal within seconds.

His return is a big boost to Rodgers’ options, especially with other wingers not really stepping up and showing good form right now. Everyone will hope to see Maeda back in the team as soon as possible.