Alistair Johnston has pointed to Daizen Maeda as a key figure for Celtic as the season moves into its final stretch, following the forward’s two-goal display against Falkirk.
Celtic came through the match at Celtic Park with a 3-1 win, but the performance had its moments. They were in control early on, then lost their grip after the break before Maeda stepped in again late in the game to settle it.
His first goal came from his own pressing. He forced the mistake and finished from distance. It set the tone. His second came at the right time, arriving in the box to meet a low cross and put the game beyond Falkirk.
That kind of movement changes games. When Maeda presses like that, it pushes the whole team higher up the pitch. It also forces mistakes from defenders who are trying to play out.
Johnston watched it unfold after coming off the bench on his return from injury. He has missed most of the season, so stepping back into that pace of game brings a different view.
He said: (Sky Sports), “We need goals. It’s as simple as that. He’s our talisman, so get him scoring all different types of ways.
“We’ve seen the past couple of weeks. It’ll be massive for us.
“If he can kick on and take that level to where he was last season, for this last month here, I feel pretty good about our chances.”
Maeda’s role is clear in this side. He leads the press from the front and gives Celtic a way to win the ball high. That matters against teams who sit in and wait. One turnover in the right area can open everything up.
Celtic will need that again next weekend. Easter Road is a different test. Hibernian will look to play and carry a threat going forward, which means Celtic have to be sharper without the ball.
Johnston’s return also gives balance on the right side. It allows the back line to hold its shape and deal with breaks better. That becomes more important away from home.
For now, the focus stays on form. Maeda has found it at the right moment, and if that continues, Celtic have a route through these final games.
Keep Reading
