'Done fantastically', 'Massive' - Journalist reacts to key Celtic update on Maeda before Rangers

Japan Times journalist Dan Orlowitz has been reacting to the possibility of Celtic forward Daizen Maeda featuring against Rangers this evening.

The Hoops host their rivals in a crucial Glasgow Derby this evening, knowing a win would take them back to the top of the Scottish Premiership.

Ange Postecoglou revealed on Tuesday that captain Callum McGregor has a chance of returning from a facial injury, while Maeda may also feature. He’s been away with Japan for two World Cup qualifiers, featuring in 56 minutes of action.

The 24-year-old was on his way back to Scotland yesterday, as reported by Anthony Joseph.

Orlowitz quote tweeted Joseph’s update, stating he’s ‘done fantastically’ for his country and a strong display against Rangers this evening could be ‘massive’ in his career.

“All in all Maeda’s done fantastically – got serious playing time in two big wins for Japan, demonstrated his talents, and seems likely to have a role of some sort in the derby. If he excels on Wednesday we will look at this last week as a massive turning point for his career.”

Postecoglou has confirmed that Maeda won’t be starting this evening, so the best he’ll get is a place on the bench in the match-day squad.

That could still be crucial, though, especially when you take into consideration that Celtic didn’t have a centre-forward to come on and impact the game against Dundee United on Saturday.

Maeda will be able to do just that, should he make the 20-man squad, and who knows, around the hour mark, he could be called upon to try and effect a tight game in Celtic’s favour.

In other news: ‘I can tell you…’ – BBC Radio 5 Live man shares key on-air info on ‘unbelievable’ Celtic ace. 

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