There was concern around Daizen Maeda after Celtic’s win at Easter Road, with the forward leaving the pitch looking uncomfortable at full-time.
Maeda had played a big part in the 2-1 win over Hibernian. He scored the opener and kept the game stretched with his movement, giving Celtic an option even when things slowed down.
Celtic are heading into a key run. Rangers come to Celtic Park next, then a quick trip to Fir Park, before Hearts visit on the final day. How fit Maeda is could shape all three games.
Journalist Michael Gannon has shared what he has heard from behind the scenes.
He said: (Hotline Live), “Somebody stood on his foot.
“From what I’m told behind the scenes, I think someone’s trod on his foot, so it’s more of an impact thing.
“It wasn’t an ankle sprain or a ligament issue.
“These boots these days are like a pair of slippers, there’s not much protection in them.
“So I think it’s just soreness across the bridge of the foot, but the feeling is he should be alright.”
That update points more towards a knock than anything serious. A direct hit hurts, but it is not the same as a twist or ligament damage that keeps a player out longer.
For Celtic, that difference is huge. Maeda’s game depends on sharp movement and pressing from the front. Any issue with his foot affects that straight away.
The way Celtic play, he runs in behind and opens space. Without that, the attack can become easier to deal with.
He will still be checked over in the next few days. Even if things look fine early on, the staff will not take risks with what lies ahead.
With three games left and no room to slip, having Maeda fit could shape how Celtic approach each match.
