McAvennie issues ‘huge’ Daizen Maeda verdict after footage emerges
Frank McAvennie has claimed Daizen Maeda will be “huge” for Celtic next season and will play an important role in Ange Postecoglou’s side.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Hoops striker said Postecoglou will want to play as many attacking players as possible next season.
As shown on the club‘s Twitter (23 July), Maeda, 24, scored an improvised goal to give the Bhoys the lead against Norwich in a pre-season friendly.
The Japan international spent last season on loan at Parkhead after joining from Japanese top flight team Yokohoma F. Marinos.
He made a permanent move to the Scottish champions this summer putting pen to paper on a four-year deal with the club.
When asked what Maeda’s role could be next season, McAvennie told Football Insider: “I think he’ll have an important role next season.
“He’s flexible, he can play across the front three. His work rate is second to none, he doesn’t give any defence a chance. I think he’s going to be huge for them.
“It’s going to be surprising to see where Ange plays him because it’s all about attacking. He’ll be wanting as many attacking players as possible on the pitch, especially in Scotland.
“For me there’s three strikers, Maeda [Giorgos] Giakoumakis, and Kyogo [Furuhashi]. That’s the three for me.“
Maeda made 21 appearances across all competitions for the Hoops last season, scoring seven goals and providing five assists.
In other news, McAvennie expects Mikey Johnston and two other Celtic stars to exit after confirmed news.