Celtic are in need of some fresh energy to boost their hunt for the Scottish Premiership title under Brendan Rodgers.
Consecutive poor performances against Ross County and Aberdeen have left much to be desired on the field.
With Hibernian next up for Rodgers at Easter Road, his side have little margin for error as they look to claim three important points in Leith.
In an honest interview, the Irishman has admitted Celtic need to find a greater level of ‘consistency’ to stay in pursuit of a third successive league crown, stating: “There’s still a long way to go and many points to fight for. We just have to focus on ourselves and find a greater consistency.”
Of course, matters are complicated further by the fact former Liverpool manager Rodgers has never won at Easter Road over six attempts, which is a record that needs to be put to rest on Wednesday night.
Conversely, one saving grace for the Bhoys may be that Hibernian come into the fixture off the back of no victories in their last six Scottish Premiership encounters.
Nevertheless, Aberdeen had just one triumph in five league-wise before Saturday afternoon’s events, showing that nothing can be taken for granted.
Fans who cannot attend the fixture can watch all the action on both Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football [LiveSoccerTV].
Celtic winger Daizen Maeda speaks after AFC Asian Cup exit
Daizen Maeda has been missing for the majority of January and some of this month due to his involvement at the AFC Asian Cup with Japan.
However, Japan suffered a surprise exit at the hands of Iran in the last eight, ending the 26-year-old’s time in Qatar alongside club teammate Reo Hatate.
Maeda has now taken to X, sending a determined message as he prepares to enter the club fold once again, which translates to: “Thank you for supporting the Asian Cup. I feel frustrated, but I have no choice but to move forward. I will return to the team and do my best again.”
Since leaving the Middle East, an official post from Celtic has pictured Maeda back in training ahead of his side’s trip to face Hibernian tomorrow.
Daizen Maeda has been missed by Celtic
Undoubtedly, Celtic have missed Maeda’s influence since his absence commenced and will welcome him back into contention with open arms.
The Japan international has made 22 appearances in all competitions this campaign, registering three goals and three assists [Transfermarkt].
Famed for his high work rate and intensity, the former Yokohama F. Marinos man will be a key player for the Bhoys between now and the end of the campaign.
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