Celtic player decides to pull out from his national team

Celtic have a number of very important matches coming up. They have nine more league matches left to be played, as they look to retain their Premiership title. And each of those games has to be treated as a final. On the other hand, they will be taking on the Rangers in the Scottish Cup semi finals as well.

Thus, this is the worst possible time for Celtic players to pick up injuries. And yet, that is exactly what has happened, as a number of them appear to have gone down at the same time.

One can only hope that the issues are not too serious and that these stars are available for selection by the time club football returns from the international break. And for their part, the players seems to be taking the matter pretty seriously as well. Daizen Maeda, who is believed to be carrying an injury, pulled out from his national team squad recently.

As reported by The Scotsman, Maeda has revealed that it was his call to head back to Scotland, as he said to Japanese media:

"“I would rather return to the team and prepare for the league match than remain in the national team.“There are things I can’t get unless I come here. I was inspired by the top Japanese players. Although I was withdrawn, I performed well at the club and will be representing again in June, I want to come back during the period.”"

Celtic player pulls out from national team squad in order to return to club

Maeda is a key part of the current Celtic set up. He is a regular starter in Postecoglou’s team. It is not just his goals and assists that are important to the side, but his relentless pressing off the ball and his ability to work for his teammates as well.

Thus, Maeda is very important to how this Celtic team plays. So, they will be hoping that his issue is nothing serious and that he is capable of getting back on the pitch as soon as possible.

It is believed that Maeda has been playing through a bit of an injury recently. And it is great to see his dedication to the Hoops.