Martin O'Neill has shared a much-anticipated update on Celtic forward Daizen Maeda, who limped off the pitch at Easter Road after the 2-1 victory over Hibernian. There was some doubt that the star, who is finding his form again, would be able to feature on Sunday against Rangers, but the manager has now confirmed that he is likely to remain in the squad.
Speaking about Maeda's fitness, O'Neill said: "He's making good progress. That's good news.
"He is definitely doing well. We've got a few days yet. He'll want to play.
"There's no doubt at all about it. He's had a new lease of life in recent weeks. He's been terrific for us.
"So I think that even at this early stage of the week, I'd be very confident that he would be on the field."
Maeda has been in great form recently, looking like his old self again. At times this season, he has been on the receiving end of criticism for seeming like he had given up in the hoops, but he has proven that he still has a lot to offer.
If he were out for Sunday, it would have been a major blow, but thankfully, it looks like he will take his place on the pitch.
Will Maeda be able to start?
Maeda will play, but the question now is whether he will start. You have to feel that he would. We know how much his pace and relentless pressing can threaten the Gers, and having that from the first whistle will be important.
There is also the question of where O'Neill will choose to play him. Kelechi Iheanacho has staked his claim to be in the team, but his fitness still doesn't look up to scratch. He has missed out on a lot of football this season, and it's showing. He has a brilliant strike and gets in good positions, but he can also look tired, even when he only plays 20 minutes or so.
On the other hand, Callum Osmand could get a chance. He is set to return from injury, and although it would be risky to throw him into such an important game, some fans are calling for him to at least be in the matchday squad. He looked good when he featured for the Celts earlier in the season. His injury came at a bad time, and he'll be eager to show what he can offer.
No matter who starts and where everyone plays, all the players will know that a win is necessary. We need to get at them right from the off. Don't let them breathe, and send them home with no points. It's the only way we can stay firmly in the title race.
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