Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has heaped praise on Daizen Maeda following a commanding 3-1 victory over Falkirk. The Japanese forward looks to have finally put a turbulent summer of transfer speculation behind him.
Maeda dominated the first half at Parkhead, effectively deciding the contest before the interval. He twice robbed the Falkirk defense of possession, scoring the opener himself and later providing the assist for Kieran Tierney to double the lead. Although Bairns substitute Kyrell Wilson managed to pull one back, Maeda secured the points in the 83rd minute with his second goal of the day. The win ensures Celtic maintain the pace in the title race, keeping the heat on both Hearts and Rangers.
From Uncertainty to Undisputed Form
After winning Player of the Year last season, the man often called Celtic’s “Duracell Bunny” struggled to find his rhythm during the early stages of this campaign. His dip in form coincided with a heavy link to the Bundesliga. Maeda had reportedly been keen on a move to Germany, but a deal failed to materialize.
The clouds of that “11th hour” disappointment appear to have cleared. Following a strong showing against St Mirren in the Scottish Cup, Maeda now boasts five goal contributions in just two matches.
O’Neill Hails the Talisman
Speaking after the final whistle, O’Neill expressed his admiration for the striker’s relentless work rate. He noted that Maeda was “fantastic throughout” and highlighted how his pressing remains elite even into the final minutes of a game.
Reflecting on the player’s previous mindset, O’Neill suggested that the failed Bundesliga move likely weighed on his mind. The manager theorized that Maeda might have felt he had achieved everything he could in Scotland at the time. However, O’Neill was quick to point out that the forward has “come roaring back” and fully deserves the praise currently coming his way.
Mixed News on the Injury Front
The afternoon provided another reason for the Parkhead faithful to cheer as Alistair Johnston made his long-awaited return. The Canadian right-back, who has been sidelined since October with a recurring hamstring injury, received a standing ovation when he was introduced. O’Neill described the reception as “amazing” and noted that Johnston is “itching to go” after a successful cameo.
There was a slight dampener on the result when Kieran Tierney was forced off with 18 minutes remaining. O’Neill downplayed the severity of the issue, suggesting the substitution was a precautionary measure due to general fatigue and a minor knock.