Celtic: 3 players to watch out for against Hibernian

Daizen Maeda

It is safe to say that there is a lot of excitement around Celtic’s new January signings. And Maeda might very well be the pick of the four.

Maeda topped the scoring charts in the J1 League in the 2021 season, along with Leandro Damiao, despite not being an out and out striker. And Celtic fans will be hoping that he brings his scoring boots to Parkhead along with him.

Maeda has incredible pace, movement, an eye for goal and the ability to finish with both his feet. He might very well be the perfect signing for Ange Postecoglou’s style of football.

On top of everything else, he might have the easiest time adjusting to his new surroundings as well, because of the fact that he has already played under the management of Postecoglou at Yokohama F. Marinos. Also, he has past experience of playing in Europe as well, having represented Portuguese side, Maritimo, in the past.

Thus, it is not hard to see why expectations are so high around Maeda and it will be interesting to see if the can match them. If he does, Celtic will have made a tremendous signing.

Reo Hatate

Another new arrival from Japan, Hatate was a standout in the J1 League, playing an important part for back-to-back champions Kawasaki Frontale.

At first glance, his biggest strength is his versatility as he is equally comfortable playing in multiple positions all over the pitch.

But, it is believed that it is in the number 8 role in midfield that he is at his best and suggestions have been that it is in the middle of the park that Postecoglou is planning to play him in.

Thus, he could end up replacing David Turnbull in the starting XI for now, as he recovers from his injury.

Also, it must be said that many believe that in terms of potential, Hatate might have a higher ceiling than even Maeda, which is an exciting thought for sure.