Daizen Maeda has provided Celtic with a major boost heading into the new season, declaring his intention to stay at the club and continue his brilliant run of form.
The Japanese striker had a brilliant season for Celtic, scoring 33 goals in 51 games. His tireless running and sharp eye for goal saw him pick up several Player of the Year awards. Unsurprisingly, that kind of form caught the eye, with clubs like West Ham and Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce said to be watching him closely.
However, Maeda has seemingly confirmed his commitment to Celtic while back in Japan during the off-season. Speaking as a guest of honour at his former club Mito HollyHock, the forward made it crystal clear where his future lies.
He said: (TCW), “I was in great form this season, both personally and so were the team.
“So I’d like to keep it going next season.
“I am who I am because of my team, Celtic.
“I’d like to thank my teammates and, above all, my family for supporting me so far.
“I’d be happy if I could score more goals next season. I hope the number of goals will continue to increase.”
Maeda’s comments will go down well with Brendan Rodgers and the Celtic support, especially after the season he just had. Standout moments included netting the winning penalty against Rangers in December’s Premier Sports Cup final and scoring against Kilmarnock to become the first Celtic player since Henrik Larsson in 2004 to score in eight straight starts at Celtic Park.
DURING UEFA CUP FINAL MATCH IN SEVILLE.
Celtic’s Swedish Henrik Larsson (L) celebrates with teammate Stilian Petrov
after scoring against Porto during UEFA Cup final soccer match in Seville
May 21, 2003. REUTERS/Jeff J Mitchell PP03050078
With Maeda leading the line and bringing his trademark energy off the ball, Celtic’s attack will be all the stronger if he stays on for the new season. Adam Idah and Johnny Kenny are the other striker options currently in the squad, but the club may still look to bring in another forward before the new season.
Having been given a break by the Japanese national team after early World Cup qualification, Maeda’s focus now shifts fully to Celtic. His aim is clear: to push on, score even more goals, and drive the team to further success in the coming year.
