Daizen Maeda has spoken openly about his form this season after Celtic’s win over Falkirk, admitting he has not always met his own standards.
The forward was the difference again at Celtic Park, scoring twice in a 3-1 victory that keeps Celtic right in the title race. His first came from pressing, forcing a mistake before finishing from distance. His second arrived late, stepping into the box to finish off a low cross and settle the match.
Those moments have started to return in recent weeks. Earlier in the season, Maeda still offered the same running and effort, but the end product was not there as often. He was getting into good areas without finishing moves or creating clear chances.
That has shifted. His timing looks sharper, and his decisions in front of goal have improved. It is showing in games now, especially when space is tight and chances are limited.
Even so, Maeda has been honest about how he views his own campaign. He has not hidden from the quieter spells and has pointed to a need to give more back to the support.
He said: (Celtic TV), “Well, I think individually, collectively, we still have a space to improve, so I’ll try my best to stay on the camera every game.
“Every time the supporters were helping us, but personally I wasn’t performing well and giving them back.
“But in the last four games I will try my best to give them everything back.”
That focus on the final run stands out. Celtic have a small number of games left, and each one carries weight. Goals from the front line will decide how far they go.
Maeda’s role suits that situation. His pressing can force errors when teams try to play out. His movement in the box gives Celtic an option when the ball is delivered quickly from wide areas.
The recent goals suggest he is finding that edge again. If it continues, Celtic will have a forward who can change games when margins are tight.
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2 responses
Good to see Maeda back to something like his best, sharper, quicker and scoring.
Gives us hope