John Hartson elaborates on why Daizen Maeda is undervalued at Celtic

Celtic winger Daizen Maeda enjoyed another fruitful Glasgow Derby last weekend, netting the opener in the Bhoys’ 3-3 draw against Rangers at Ibrox.

The Japan international caught James Tavernier coasting inside 21 seconds, rapidly closing down the Englishman, whose clearance diverted off Maeda to grant the visitors an early lead in Govan.

Per Fotmob, the 26-year-old completed ten defensive actions, 18 out of 23 attempted passes and came out on top in five of his six contested challenges (83%).

In total, Maeda has registered nine goals and three assists in 32 appearances across all comPetitions this term, providing a constant threat from the left flank [Transfermarkt].

Famed for his energetic nature, the former Yokohama F. Marinos winger has a lot more beneath the surface than just being a pressing machine, although his lightning-quick speed and suitability to Brendan Rodgers’ system make him a key component of the Irishman’s long-term plans at Parkhead.

Last year, Maeda penned a new deal at Celtic until 2027, and Rodgers spoke about his admiration towards his qualities shortly after returning north of the border.

He stated: “Daizen has many qualities that I like in a player — high intensity, attack-minded and his work rate on and off the ball is exceptional.

“He has played a key role in the team since he arrived, helping to secure yet another Treble for the club, so I am delighted we have been able to secure a new deal with him.”

John Hartson thinks Daizen Maeda’s qualities are undervalued

Former Celtic striker John Hartson has lauded Maeda’s performance up against Rangers captain Tavernier last weekend, claiming the latter ‘didn’t know what day it was’ at times facing the Japan attacker.

Nevertheless, the Welshman also indicated that his level of talent sometimes goes under the radar at the Hoops amid the focus on Maeda’s ‘energy’ levels in a Celtic jersey.

Hartson stated [Go Radio Football Show]: “He’s not renowned for his goalscoring, but he gets his fair share. We keep going on about his energy, but he’s clever as well. He can show defenders down the line; he can show them inside into the oncoming midfield player. He gets up and down the pitch.

“He’s really good, and I thought he gave Tavernier a horrendous afternoon. Honestly, Tavernier didn’t know what day it was. With the goal, Tavernier tries to hook it away, but I think if he’s a bit calmer, he rolls it back to the goalkeeper.

“Maeda’s made up so much ground; Tavernier is probably shocked by the fact he was there.”

Truthfully, Celtic are lucky to have Maeda’s unique blend of attributes, and he very rarely lets the club down against our closest rivals, where he appears to thrive on Glasgow Derby chaos.

Undoubtedly, the Taishi-born man is set to be a critical player over our remaining fixtures as the Bhoys fight it out with Rangers for the Scottish Premiership title.

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