Daizen Maeda is currently on international duty in Japan. The Celtic winger was called up by Hajime Moriyasu for the double headers against El Salvador and Peru this month.
The Celtic winger was interviewed by the local media and was speaking about how Hoops coach, Harry Kewell has told him to be more effective when taking on defenders.
Maeda said [Asahi], “He told me that if I was one-on-one with an opponent, I should play them. Before that, I used to fling passes easily, but now I’ve learned to take the initiative, even if I get taken out.
“If you’re giving 100% all the time, it’s easy for your opponents to see (your movements). I’m conscious of stopping once and then speeding up at once. I’m getting better at using my speed than before.
“In forward positions, you have to play with the defence line and get behind them, but on the flanks, you have more one-on-one situations. I enjoy it when I get past an opponent there or when I make a good cross.
“I used to think I was better at forward, but now I really enjoy playing on the flanks. I think it’s good if I can do well in the position I’m given.” [translated by Deep L]
If there is one criticism that can be levied at Maeda is that sometimes his final ball can be rushed. The Japanese winger is great a running past defenders but his crossing can, at times, be erratic.
However, no one can fault his work rate. It is simply just superb. Maeda’s defensive work for Celtic is just as important as his attacking and that is something that the fans love about him.
The next Celtic manager, whoever that may be, will be delighted to have a player like Maeda in his squad. And if he continues to follow the advice of Kewell, he will be an effective weapon for Celtic next season.
In other news, Report: Celtic-linked Enzo Maresca interviewed by Leicester City for manager’s job
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