McManus: Daizen Maeda could now explode at Celtic after ‘huge’ development
Daizen Maeda could now transform his Celtic career after impressing for Japan at the Qatar World Cup.
That’s according to former Hibernian striker Tam McManus, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the striker’s World Cup performance.
Maeda, 25, started Japan’s first game at the Qatar World Cup as his side secured a historic 2-1 comeback win against Germany.
However, he was then dropped to the bench for his side’s remaining group games before returning against Croatia in the round of 16.
Against Croatia, Maeda finally grabbed a World Cup goal even though his side were eventually eliminated on penalties.
McManus claims the goal could have a “huge” impact on his Celtic career.
“Fair play to him, he has had a good World Cup and Japan had a good run,” McManus told Football Insider‘s Ben Wild.
“It’s great for Maeda, great for his confidence. Playing and scoring in the World Cup is the pinnacle. Maybe he will come back to Celtic a more confident and better player.
“He has taken a bit of stick from Celtic supporters, he’s missed a lot of chances. He hasn’t really shown that composure in front of goal but maybe he will come back a different player.
“You always want to see your players doing well at the World Cup and I think he did well with Japan. Goals like that can make a huge difference to your career if you capitalise on them.”
Maeda has scored three goals in 14 league games for the Hoops this season.
He failed to score in the Champions League group stage despite playing in all six games.
In other news, McManus claims Celtic are already planning to sell a recent signing as ‘big’ claim made.