For the second game running, Celtic did not make a good start. This time around, they went a goal down to Hearts, with Josh Ginnelly finding himself on the scoresheet at Parkhead. As a result, the Hoops had to go in search of a goal and they found it through a man in form right now, in Daizen Maeda.
The Japanese international showed immense bravery to get on the end of a cross from Kyogo Furuhashi. In the process, he ended up colliding with the Hearts goalkeeper.
While Maeda might have managed to bring the Hoops level, he hurt himself in the process as well and looked concerned immediately after the collision with the Hearts goalkeeper happened. He was taken off at the half hour mark for Jota.
Now, that is not a bad substitution to make at all and we all know what Jota is capable of, especially when playing on the left wing. But Maeda has become an integral part of the side this season, not just for his output but also for the work he puts in up front as well, relentlessly running for the team. Thus, one can only hope that he has not picked up a serious issue.
Celtic suffer major problem in first half against Hearts
With Maeda out, eyes will turn towards Jota. With the Japanese forward establishing himself in the starting XI, the Portuguese star has been shifted to right wing in recent times.
And while he has done a decent enough job, one has to admit that he has not looked at his glittering best. Hopefully, a move back to left wing will unlock his form once again.
It is the side where he has looked more comfortable. On the other hand, we can only hope that Maeda is fine and will be back available soon.