Stephen McGinn says he ‘wouldn’t pick an XI’ without selecting struggling Celtic star

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Celtic return to domestic action this weekend following the conclusion of the international break.

In truth, the October international break probably came at the wrong time because of how Celtic beat Motherwell.

It was much-needed, not just because three goals were scored by Celtic, and it was a late winner, but because Daizen Maeda got on the scoresheet.

The Japan international has been a source of frustration for fans this term, because he hasn’t looked like the man who won Scotland’s PFA Player of the Year last term.

But despite Maeda’s drop in form, he is still getting his plaudits.

• READ MORE: Who is Daizen Maeda? Meet Celtic’s energetic, free-scoring talisman

Stephen McGinn defends Daizen Maeda at Celtic

Stephen McGinn is on the coaching staff at Falkirk, and he came up against Maeda this season, when he scored during Celtic’s 4-1 League Cup win.

The boyhood Celtic fan made it clear that, despite Maeda being questioned and not performing to his usual high standards, the 27-year-old would still be part of his best XI.

Speaking on Go Radio, McGinn also spoke about Maeda’s situation, after he admitted he wanted to leave in the summer, and how he doesn’t doubt his efforts this season.

“I wouldn’t pick an XI without Maeda,” said McGinn. “I don’t necessarily think he is the type who runs around in a huff. He has maybe had a dip.

“He would have agreed on a contract, wherever he was going to be going. It would have set up his family for life, from a guy who has come from the J-League. He is a little older now. He gave Celtic really good service. He probably agreed on personal terms long before a deal was announced because he knew it was happening.

“So, it’s probably just that little bit of a deep breath thinking, ‘okay, I need to get my head down, work hard, and it may come up again in January.’ It’s a World Cup year. It’s really important for the Japanese boys that they can be in that World Cup squad.”

Maeda has still had ‘big moments’ despite Celtic struggle

Even Maeda himself will tell you that he needs to up his game, but as McGinn rightfully pointed out, there have been some ‘big moments’ from him this season.

Another one came against Motherwell, and hopefully, this will start a run where he becomes consistent because it’s needed.

“I still think he is trying his best,” added McGinn. “And, by the way, he has still had some big moments in keeping Celtic where they are.

“You think of his header down at Rugby Park, and also his header at Motherwell. Real crucial goals.”