Celtic expert can’t believe ‘huge’ Daizen Maeda development – ‘Nightmare’
Daizen Maeda proved his importance to Celtic after his “huge” performance against Rangers on Sunday (7 April).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hoops and West Ham striker Frank McAvennie hailed Maeda, 26, for his exceptional opening goal against the Gers in their 3-3 draw at Ibrox.
Philippe Clement’s side were stunned just 21 seconds into the clash after James Tavernier’s attempted clearance was ushered into the back of the net by the Japan international just outside the penalty area.
Maeda, who had only scored once in his last seven league starts for Celtic before the Old Firm showdown, had been criticised by much of the Hoops fanbase for his struggles in front of goal.
Celtic star Daizen Maeda ‘huge’ after Old Firm performance
However, McAvennie was adamant that the forward’s “pace and energy” are crucial for Brendan Rodgers’ side and his goal against Rangers will still be giving Tavernier “nightmares”.
“[The Rangers game] proved just how important Maeda is, he’s huge,” he told Football Insider.
“James Tavernier is still having nightmares!
“The goal was just a long ball that wasn’t planned, but Tavernier couldn’t do much.
“The centre-backs should have cleared that – they were nowhere to be seen.
“All of a sudden, Tavernier was running away and Maeda was up to full speed.
“I don’t know why Tavernier didn’t try to give it to the goalkeeper.
“Maeda gave them a hard time with his pace and energy.”
In other news, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is ‘furious’ as his board demand revealed – sources.
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