Celtic star Daizen Maeda has been pictured in training at Lennoxtown ahead of the crucial Glasgow derby on Sunday. There was some worry that the winger wouldn't be available; however, it seems he will be ready to go.
The forward took a knock during the 2-1 victory over Hibernian last weekend, limping off the pitch at full-time without a boot. It was a painful wait to find out if he would be in the squad, but Martin O'Neill confirmed earlier this week that Maeda was making good progress and that he will want to be in the squad.
The training pictures offer new hope, as it seems he will be ready beyond any doubt. Having him up front has been a massive boost for Celtic recently, and with Kelechi Iheanacho also looking good when he has come on, the Hoops go into the derby with major positives on the attacking front.
🤕 Cameron Carter-Vickers & Daizen Maeda back in training ahead of a big match on Sunday, after their most recent injuries! #Celtic pic.twitter.com/C7gnBP4Q0X
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Martin O'Neill confirmed that he will be ready. He said: "Daizen, he hurt himself towards the end of the game. He’s fine.
"It is, yeah [a big boost].
"Really, really good. He’s trained a bit, he’s got no reaction. He’s going to be fine.
"Absolutely, he’s got his goals from pressing and getting important goals for us in matches.
"He’s had a super couple of weeks."
Also spotted in training was defender Carter-Vickers. He will not be available for this one. He isn't expected to be back until next pre-season, but he has recently been getting involved with the team at Lennoxtown again. He never really went away, with it being revealed that he had spent lots of time around the team while he was injured. Having him back will be huge, but it isn't time just yet.
Maeda must start, but Iheanacho should play a part
Maeda should start against Rangers, with him often threatening them with his blistering pace and relentless pressing. He is the best option to have up front, but that doesn't mean that Iheanacho shouldn't be involved. He should come off the bench because he has qualities that could help us out.
If we want a big result, we need to utilise all of our talent. That could include Callum Osmand, who some fans have been calling to be involved. The young striker is set to return from injury and should be available, so there seems to be no reason why he shouldn't be in the squad.
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