Celtic’s Daizen Maeda has become a Glasgow Derby tormenter for Rangers in recent seasons and he always enjoys a match-up with the Bhoys’ arch-rivals.
Over the piece, the Japan international has won 11 of his 16 encounters on derby day, registering three goals and four assists in that time.
With the build-up to this weekend’s Premier Sports Cup final brewing, Barry Ferguson is worried about Daizen Maeda tormenting Rangers due to the fate his old side have suffered over recent seasons in meaningful contests – especially his direct marker James Tavernier.
Regardless, this weekend’s Hampden showcase cannot breed any sort of complacency from a Celtic standpoint. Callum McGregor has urged his side to seize the cup final opportunity at stake, so expect the Bhoys to be hungry for further success.
Previewing what is set to be a mouthwatering afternoon in Glasgow’s southside, Neil Lennon has put forward why Maeda could be a decisive factor in this weekend’s proceedings.
Neil Lennon on Daizen Maeda tormenting James Tavernier
Speaking on the Warm Up, Lennon believes Tavernier’s misfortune up against Maeda could be ‘psychological’ and cited the latter’s ability to ghost in at the back post as something Celtic could utilise this weekend.
He stated: “It’s a conundrum for him, but there’s no doubt he has struggled against Maeda. Maybe they need to look at overloading that side to stop it. I don’t know how you would do that; maybe get another midfielder over to give him that bit of protection.
Later, he continued: “He keeps getting done on his far post. The amount of times Celtic go down the right hand side and cut it back. Maeda is first to the ball to get the first contact and score. James should be better than that, maybe that’s a psychological thing.
When Alan Hutton suggests that Tavernier could’ve learned from his mistakes, Lennon interjected, saying, “He’s not, has he?”. Finishing off, he added on Maeda’s pace: “Pace for anybody is a nightmare!”
Celtic need their big hitters to show up at Hampden
This campaign, Celtic haven’t had any problem in producing consistency domestically. Thirty matches on Scottish soil have come and gone with the Bhoys retaining an unbeaten streak throughout.
Nevertheless, form cannot be used as a marker for a one-off showpiece at Hampden. The Bhoys need to bring their A-game on Sunday to ensure they emerge victorious.
Trophies are what football is about and thriving under pressure is part of what makes this club so special. Once again, supporters will set that expectation for Celtic on Sunday.
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