Daizen Maeda is a player who has proved his worth to the Celtic fans since he signed for the club back in December 2021.
One of three new arrivals from Japan, Maeda made an instant impact after scoring within four minutes of his debut against Hibs in the 2-0 win at Celtic Park the following January.
107 appearances, 27 goals and 16 assists later, Meada‘s importance to the team is not only what he offers in the attacking areas, but also in his defensive duties. [Transfermarkt]
And it looks like that has taken a whole new dimension for Maeda in his last match for Japan and in the next fixture against Syria.
Maeda ‘looking forward’ to Japan role change
The Celtic winger is probably more recognised for the work he does in his defensive role in the game than his attacking threat.
His work rate at closing down and tracking back is exceptional. And it looks like Japan manager, Hajime Moriyasu, is to capitalise on that in the Samurai Blues’ upcoming fixture against Syria on Tuesday by utilising him as a left wingback.
Maeda said [Soccer Digest Web], “Of course, I don’t know who will be in the match, but when I play, I have to show something different (from Keito Nakamura).
“The opponents will come in a situation where they need to win, so I think it will be a difficult match. I want to make sure I’m fired up.
“Wing-backs have to run longer distances and I think I can use my weapons (speed and running ability) more than other players, but it becomes hard if I do that all the time for 90 minutes.
“It’s important to use your head and think about when to come up. In a way, it’s a position I’ve never played before, so it’s fresh and I’m looking forward to it. I want to do what I can do against strong opponents.
“This season the coach changed (from Ange Postecoglou to Brendan Rodgers) and the style of football changed, so it was difficult at first, but my role didn’t change much and I was able to play well.
“I want to show the results of that in the last game of the season (against Syria) and finish in a good way.”
Is this a role that Brendan Rodgers could utilise Maeda in? I would have to say it is unlikely. the Celtic boss is a huge fan of the 4-3-3 system and is not likely to change that anytime soon.
What is good to hear though is that Maeda is open to change and is adaptable enough to understand the changes he is required to do to progress himself not only with Japan but with Celtic as well.
The Hoops support will be hoping that Maeda finishes his international duties injury-free so he can get rested for the season ahead.